A standardized weight-based heparin protocol. Improving clinical outcomes.
A 3-year study evaluated various heparin dosing regimens. The clinical outcomes of a traditional non-weight-based method were compared with a newly designed standard protocol that related the heparin dose to patient weight. The relative time to achieve therapeutic anticoagulation, the number of additional intravenous heparin injections required and the length of hospitalization were all evaluated. Overall, it was found that the individualized weight-based protocol improved clinical outcomes and lowered medical costs.
Lechner
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Medical Surgical Telemetry Unit, St. Joseph's Healthcare System, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001835:Body Weight; D002985:Clinical Protocols / Q000592:standards*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000592:standards*; D006493:Heparin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care
D000925:Anticoagulants; D006493:Heparin