Question

a nurse is caring for a client who is about to begin alteplase therapy to treat pulmonary embolism. which of the following medications should the nurse have available in the event of a severe adverse reaction?

• vitamin k
• aminocaproic acid
• protamine
• deferoxamine

Explanation:

Alteplase is a thrombolytic (fibrinolytic) agent. Severe adverse reactions like severe bleeding may occur. Aminocaproic acid is an antifibrinolytic that can reverse the effects of thrombolytics by inhibiting fibrinolysis. Vitamin K is for reversing warfarin, Protamine for heparin, and Deferoxamine for iron toxicity—none relate to alteplase reversal.

Answer:

B. Aminocaproic acid