Pharmacology Proctored ATI Practice Exam

Which technique should a nurse use when administering heparin subcutaneously?

1. Using an air-lock technique

2. Injecting directly into a muscle

3. Cleanse the skin, insert the needle, inject the heparin, observe for bleeding

4. Swabbing with povidone-iodine and airing to dry

The correct answer is: Cleanse the skin, insert the needle, inject the heparin, observe for bleeding

When administering heparin subcutaneously, it is important to use the clean technique to prevent infection. Swabbing the skin prior to insertion of the needle helps to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria into the patient's skin. Additionally, injecting directly into a muscle can increase the risk of pain and bruising for the patient. Using the air-lock technique, which involves injecting a small amount of air into the syringe after the medication has been injected, is not necessary for subcutaneous injections. Swabbing with povidone-iodine and airing to dry is not recommended as it may delay the administration of the medication and increase the risk of contamination. Therefore, option C is the most appropriate and safe technique for administering heparin subcutaneously.