THE HEPARIN THAT CLOTTED

Course overview

This course presents a complex postoperative case involving Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT), a rare but potentially life-threatening immune-mediated reaction to heparin. Though widely used for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, heparin can, in susceptible individuals, paradoxically trigger thrombosis through platelet activation and antibody formation. Through a structured narrative format and evidence-based analysis, this course examines the early clinical indicators of HIT, including unexplained thrombosis, rapid platelet decline, and non-responsiveness to anticoagulation. Participants will explore the diagnostic process, management strategies, and nursing responsibilities in recognizing and responding to HIT in acute care settings. Emphasis is placed on the importance of critical thinking, timely laboratory evaluation, interprofessional communication, and institutional protocols to support safe and effective patient care. This activity is designed to enhance nursing competence in identifying high-risk medication reactions, advocating for appropriate treatment modifications, and contributing to systems-level improvements in medication safety and hematologic monitoring.