What intervention should the nurse implement for a client on a continuous heparin infusion with an aPTT of 140 seconds?

In the case of a client receiving a continuous heparin infusion indicated by an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) of 140 seconds, the most appropriate intervention is to stop the infusion and notify the healthcare provider. Heparin is an anticoagulant, and an aPTT that significantly exceeds the therapeutic range (which typically is around 1.5 to 2.5 times the normal range, depending on the indication) suggests a high risk of bleeding complications.

The aim of heparin therapy is to maintain the aPTT within an acceptable therapeutic range that balances the need for anticoagulation and the risk of excessive bleeding. If aPTT results indicate that the client is at risk for bleeding, immediate action is required to prevent potential hemorrhagic events. Stopping the infusion of heparin is essential to reduce that risk.

Notifying the healthcare provider is also crucial, as they will need to assess the situation and determine the next steps, which may include adjusting the dosage, switching to an alternative anticoagulant, or implementing reversal strategies if necessary.

Continuing the heparin infusion and rechecking aPTT in several hours would not be appropriate due to the elevated aPTT, which