What it means
Shorthand for tenecteplase (brand TNKase), a thrombolytic drug given as a single IV push to dissolve clots in heart attack and, in many centers, stroke. ISMP lists TNK as error-prone because it has been confused with TPA (alteplase), which has a different dose and is given differently. Thrombolytics are on ISMP's high-alert list.
For the nurse
Write "tenecteplase" in full, and check the weight-based dose and the vial carefully against the order.
Easy to confuse with
TPA
An abbreviation for tissue plasminogen activator (alteplase), a clot-dissolving drug; ISMP advises writing the full drug name.