Understanding rtPA and Its Uses in Critical Care

What is the primary function of alteplase (rtPA) in medical treatment?

• To reduce fever

• To lyse clots in emergent situations

• To treat infections

• To increase blood pressure

What does rtPA stand for?

• Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator

• Rapid thrombolytic protein activator

• Rapid tissue plasminogen activator

• Recombinant thrombolytic protein activator

Which of the following is a common side effect of rtPA?

• Weight gain

• Hair loss

• Bleeding

• Increased appetite

For which condition is alteplase (rtPA) the only FDA-approved medication?

• Acute ischemic stroke

• Deep vein thrombosis

• Myocardial infarction

• Pulmonary embolism

What is the maximum dose of rtPA for treating acute ischemic stroke?

• 70 milligrams

• 50 milligrams

• 90 milligrams

• 100 milligrams

What is the preferred method of rtPA administration for myocardial infarction?

• Oral administration

• Accelerated infusion

• Intramuscular injection

• Subcutaneous injection

In the case of massive pulmonary embolism, what is the recommended rtPA dose for hemodynamic compromise?

• 200 milligrams over 4 hours

• 150 milligrams over 3 hours

• 100 milligrams over 2 hours

• 50 milligrams over 1 hour

What is the initial step in using rtPA to restore flow in an occluded central line?

• Increase the patient's fluid intake

• Perform a blood test

• Infuse a 2 mg dose into the line

• Administer a 10 ml flush

How long should the initial rtPA dose dwell in an occluded line before checking for functionality?

• 15 minutes

• 90 minutes

• 30 minutes

• 60 minutes

What should be done if the central line remains non-functional after the initial rtPA dose?

• Increase the infusion rate

• Administer a second dose of rtPA

• Remove the line

• Wait another 30 minutes