Alteplase (Activase) Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the pharmacological class of Alteplase (Activase)?

Plasminogen Activator (correct)

Thrombolytics

Antiplatelets

Beta Blockers

What is the therapeutic class of Alteplase (Activase)?

Thrombolytics

What conditions is Alteplase (Activase) used to treat?

Acute MI, pulmonary embolism, acute ischemic stroke

Which of the following drugs is NOT in the same classification as Alteplase (Activase)?

Warfarin Signup and view all the answers

What are some major contraindications for the use of Alteplase (Activase)?

Active bleeding, significant closed head trauma, major surgeries, GI bleeding, pregnancy Signup and view all the answers

Alteplase (Activase) should be administered _____ only.

I/V Signup and view all the answers

Alteplase (Activase) has a long half-life and has specific antidotes available.

False Signup and view all the answers

What serious side effect is associated with the use of Alteplase (Activase)?

Bleeding, especially intracranial hemorrhage Signup and view all the answers

Match the nursing considerations with their actions:

Obtain baseline platelet counts = Minimize bruising or bleeding Ensure adequate IV access = Monitor patient vital signs D/c therapy if life-threatening bleeding occurs = Monitor for changes related to intracranial bleeding Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Alteplase (Activase) Overview

Pharmacological Class: Plasminogen Activator
Therapeutic Class: Thrombolytics; classified as Pregnancy Category C

Actions and Uses

Administered for acute myocardial infarction (MI), pulmonary embolism, and acute ischemic stroke.
Aids in restoring patency of central IV catheters using Cathflo Activase.
Fibrin-specific, activating plasminogen to convert it into plasmin, which digests fibrin to break down clots.

Other Drugs in Class

Includes tenecteplase, Cathflo Activase, and reteplase.

Interactions

Increased bleeding risk when used with NSAIDs, heparin, warfarin, thrombolytics, and antiplatelets.
Contraindicated in cases of active bleeding, significant trauma history within 2 months, major surgeries, GI bleeding, atherosclerosis, and pregnancy.

Administration Considerations

Administered intravenously (I/V) only.
Best started within 3 hours of the precipitating event, with immediate use for reinfarction.

Toxicity and Antidote

Possesses a short half-life and lacks specific antidotes.

Side/Adverse Effects

Serious risk of bleeding, including internal and superficial sites, notably intracranial hemorrhage.

Nursing Considerations

Obtain baseline labs: platelet counts, hemoglobin (Hgb), hematocrit (Hct), aPTT, PT, INR, and fibrinogen levels.
Ensure adequate IV access for medications and have emergency equipment available.
Monitor for bruising, spontaneous bleeding, and vital signs.
Apply pressure dressings to recent wounds and watch for signs of internal bleeding and changes in consciousness.
Maintain bed rest during infusion.
After therapy, administer heparin or aspirin to prevent rethrombosis, along with beta-blockers for myocardial oxygen management and H2 antagonists or proton pump inhibitors to prevent GI bleeding.

Description

This quiz consists of flashcards covering the pharmacological and therapeutic classes of Alteplase (Activase), along with its actions and uses. It is designed to help students and healthcare professionals memorize important details about this thrombolytic agent.