The nurse is preparing to initiate a heparin infusion on an 8-year-old patient. Before initiating the infusion, it is critical that the nurse assesses the patient's:

Explanation

•In children, heparin infusion dosages are calculated based on the patient's weight to better estimate the dosage needed to achieve the optimal aPTT.

•Incorrect options: Blood pressure, heart sounds, and pupil reactivity should be a part of the nurse's regular assessment, but do not need to be repeated just prior to a heparin infusion.

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