In planning care for a client receiving heparin, the nurse is aware that the dose is administered subcutaneously. What is the reason for using this route?
a. Heparin is absorbed readily by the gastrointestinal mucosa and protected by the liver.
b. Heparin is poorly absorbed by the gastrointestinal mucosa and destroyed by liver enzymes.
c. The effective absorption of heparin can be hampered by food.
d. The effective absorption of heparin is hampered by the stomach's inadequate blood flow.
ANS: B
Subcutaneous administration of heparin prevents poor absorption and eliminates destruction of heparin by the liver.
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