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Heparin thrombocytopenia — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardAdverse Drug Reactions and Drug SafetyHeparin thrombocytopeniaGPhC CRA

A patient on heparin after surgery has a platelet count fall noted on discharge paperwork. They ask whether bruising is expected. What monitoring is required?

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Correct answer: E — Escalate for assessment of possible heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

A significant platelet fall during heparin therapy may indicate HIT, a serious immune-mediated reaction. It requires urgent clinical review. In this scenario, the correct option is escalate for assessment of possible heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: BNF