A patient with thrombocytopenia is prescribed desmopressin to promote the release of von Willebrand factor. The nurse assesses the patient for which of the following effects of desmopressin?

Explanation

•Desmopressin is a synthetic antidiuretic hormone.

•Desmopressin increases water reabsorption in the kidneys leading to decreased urine output. (Desmopressin is also used to treat diabetes insipidus.)

•Desmopressin also induces the release of von Willebrand factor from its storage sites in endothelial cells, allowing better platelet adhesion and improved clotting time (shortened aPTT).

•Desmopressin has been successfully used in the treatment of bleeding episodes in patients with VWD types 1 and 2, mild to moderate haemophilia A, platelet function defects related to aspirin use, bleeding related to cirrhosis, and heparin use.


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