What it means
A thrombolyticthrom-boh-LIT-ikA drug that dissolves blood clots that have already formed.thromb/o clot-lytic breaking downFull entry that turns on the body's own clot-breaking system to dissolve blood clots that have already formed. It is used for ischemic stroke within hours of the start of symptoms, for some heart attacks and large pulmonary embolismPUL-muh-nair-ee EM-buh-liz-umA blockage of an artery in the lungs, usually by a blood clot that has traveled there from elsewhere in the body.pulmon/o lung-ary relating toembol/o plug-ism conditionFull entry , and in small doses (Cathflo Activase) to clear a blocked central line. Its main danger is bleeding, including bleeding in the brain.
For the nurse
Before giving it, the provider screens for bleeding risks (recent surgery, bleeding, very high blood pressure). During and after the infusion, check neuro status and vital signs very often, keep the blood pressure within the ordered limits, avoid needle sticks and IM injections, and report a headache, new weakness or any bleeding at once. ISMP lists thrombolytics as high-alert medications.
At a glance
| Drug class | thrombolytic (tissue plasminogen activator) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Activase, Cathflo Activase |
| Abbreviations | tPA (tissue plasminogen activator); ISMP lists "tPA" as error-prone, since it is mistaken for tenecteplase (TNK) and tranexamic acid (TXA): write the drug name in full |
| Spanish | alteplasa |
| Also written | Activase, Cathflo Activase, Cathflo, tissue plasminogen activator |
Related terms
anticoagulant
A drug that slows the blood's ability to form clots.
pulmonary embolism
A blockage of an artery in the lungs, usually by a blood clot that has traveled there from elsewhere in the body.
bleeding
Blood escaping from a blood vessel, either out of the body or inside it.
thrombolytic
A drug that dissolves blood clots that have already formed.