Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 85%
Simulated
A nurse is instructing a patient on how to self-administer heparin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Administer the medication into the abdomen. Heparin is typically administered subcutaneously into the abdomen due to the abundance of subcutaneous tissue in this area, allowing for better absorption of the medication. This site also reduces the risk of hitting underlying muscles or blood vessels. Inserting the needle at a 15-degree angle (choice A) is not necessary as a 90-degree angle is preferred for subcutaneous injections. Aspirating for blood return (choice B) is not recommended for subcutaneous injections as it may cause tissue damage. Massaging the site after the injection (choice D) is contraindicated as it can lead to bruising or hematoma formation.