Hemorrhagic disorders associated with thrombolytic therapy.

Thrombolytic treatment for AMI, acute ischemic stroke, and massive pulmonary embolism has shown significant benefit. Along with the potential increase in perfusion and decrease in cell death, however, comes potential complications. Bleeding is the most common complication associated with thrombolytic therapy regardless of the particular agent and can range from minor bleeding from an i.v. site to a life-threatening hemorrhage, such as GI bleeding. Expert assessment and management of patients who develop bleeding complications is critical to desired patient outcomes. Knowledge of the diagnosis for which a thrombolytic agent is used, pathophysiology, hemodynamic changes, and symptoms of complications associated with bleeding, all present a challenge to nurses. Research-based algorithms, protocols, or standardized treatment plans and a multidisciplinary approach to thrombolytic therapy provide the best opportunity for success, reducing the risk and enhancing early intervention of complications. Although thrombolytic therapy creates its own set of challenges, the alternative--failure to restore perfusion to the myocardium, brain, or pulmonary vasculature--presents both a different set of challenges and a dismal outcome.