Heparin Resistance in Critically Ill Patients: Best Practices Using Laboratory Coagulation Assays

Hospitalized patients with various underlying illnesses are routinely given parenterally administered unfractionated heparin (UFH) in order to prevent and/or treat thromboembolic events. In some cases, despite being given heparin, laboratory tests intended to monitor the UFH may report the patient has not reached the targeted therapeutic range. The observed response is considered “heparin resistance” in clinical practice and can create confusion for patient management. Our webinar will discuss clinical scenarios around heparin resistance, recommended approaches for laboratory testing when observed, including the role of chromogenic anti-Xa testing, and patient case studies.