What documentation should be used for patients receiving alteplase?

The use of an alteplase flowsheet is essential for documenting patients receiving alteplase, particularly in the context of acute ischemic stroke management. This specialized flowsheet provides a structured format that captures critical information necessary for both safe administration and monitoring of the medication. It includes important data points such as the time of administration, patient assessments before and during the infusion, vital signs, and any potential side effects or complications observed.

The alteplase flowsheet is particularly important because alteplase has strict administration guidelines and time constraints, making it crucial to have a detailed record that acknowledges adherence to protocol. It allows healthcare providers to ensure that each aspect of care is followed appropriately and that any adverse reactions can be tracked and managed effectively.

In contrast, while other documentation options like the patient health summary, medications administration history, or the patient discharge note contain valuable information, they do not offer the specific detail and immediacy required for the monitoring and administration of alteplase. These documents could support patient care in broader contexts but do not serve the specialized need that a flowsheet provides in acute stroke treatment scenarios.