A client with transient atrial fibrillation has been taking 83 mg of a

A client with transient atrial fibrillation has been taking 83 mg of aspirin daily for the past 3 years. When preparing the client for discharge from the hospital, the nurse discontinues his IV line.

In order to prevent a hematoma, the nurse needs to hold pressure on the IV site for:
1. 1 to 2 minutes
2. 2 to 3 minutes
3. 3 to 5 minutes
4. 5 to 10 minutes

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Because the client is on a low-dose aspirin, it takes longer for his blood to form a clot, so the nurse needs to hold pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. Holding pressure for 2 to 3 minutes would be appropriate for a client who is not on anticoagulant therapy.