Abciximab ReoPro
Nursing Considerations
• Know that abciximab may be used with
heparin and aspirin therapy.
• Inspect abciximab for particles; don’t use
if opaque particles are present.
• For continuous I.V. infusion, withdraw
4.5 ml from 2-mg/ml solution and inject
prescribed amount into 250-ml bag of
normal saline solution or D5W using an
in-line sterile, nonpyrogenic, low–proteinbinding
0.2- to 0.22-micron filter. Discard
unused portion.
• Give I.V. bolus with sterile, nonpyrogenic,
low–protein-binding 0.2- to 0.22-micron
filter.
• Avoid I.M. injections, venipunctures, and
use of indwelling urinary catheters, NG
tubes, and automatic blood pressure cuffs
during therapy to prevent bleeding. If
appropriate, insert an intermittent I.V.
access device to obtain blood samples.
•Watch for GI, GU, and retroperitoneal
bleeding and bleeding at puncture sites.
WARNING If hemorrhage occurs, prepare to
stop infusion immediately. Expect to treat
severe thrombocytopenia with platelet
transfusions if needed.
•Monitor patient for hypersensitivity reactions,
such as rash, pruritus, wheezing, and
dysphagia from laryngeal edema. If such
reactions occur, stop infusion and notify
prescriber immediately. If anaphylaxis
occurs, give epinephrine, antihistamines,
and corticosteroids, as prescribed.
•Obtain platelet count 2 to 4 hours after
initial bolus and every 24 hours during
therapy as ordered. Expect platelet function
to return to normal within 48 hours
after therapy ends.
•Monitor vital signs and continuous ECG
tracings during treatment.
PATIENT TEACHING
• Teach about possible adverse reactions,
including bleeding and hypersensitivity
reactions, which may cause rash, urticaria,
and dyspnea.
• Tell patient to prevent injury from falls by
maintaining bed rest and from bleeding by
keeping limb immobile while catheter
sheath is in place.
