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Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWHs): Key Facts & Mnemonics
Jul 13, 2024
Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWHs): Key Facts & Mnemonics
Overview
Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWHs)
are derived from heparin.
Generally safer than standard heparin due to lower risk of bleeding.
Important for
NCLEX
preparation.
Mnemonics
Toy Harpoon
: Symbol for heparin; helps remember LMWHs as smaller versions of heparin.
Drug Names
Enoxaparin (Lovenox)
Mnemonic
: Eggnog (sounds like Enoxaparin).
Brand Name
: Lovenox.
Note
: For NCLEX, focus on the generic name Enoxaparin.
Fondaparinux
Mnemonic
: Fondue (sounds like Fondaparinux).
Not as commonly used as Enoxaparin but important to know.
Technical Note
: Not a LMWH but has a similar mechanism of action.
Dalteparin
Mnemonic
: Doll (remember Dalteparin).
Clinical Uses
Blood Thinners
: Prevent blood clot formation.
Post-Surgery Use
: Often used in post-surgery patients at increased risk of DVTs due to limited mobility.
Advantages
: More predictable reactions in the body, less intense blood monitoring compared to standard heparin.
Potential Side Effects
Thrombocytopenia
Mnemonic
: Falling plates (low platelets).
Technical Term
: Thrombocytopenia or low platelet count.
Details
: Similar to Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT), but less common with LMWHs.
Bleeding
Mnemonic
: Shattered glass cutting; reminds of bleeding risks.
Details
: Longer bleeding times expected, still needs monitoring though less intense than with normal heparin.
Recap
Drugs
: Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Dalteparin.
Uses
: Prevent blood clots, especially in post-surgery DVT-risk patients.
Safety
: Safer than unfractionated heparin, potential side effects include thrombocytopenia and bleeding.
Conclusion
Mnemonic Learning
: Simplifies complex topics; like receiving presents for the holidays.
Call to Action
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