What is the use of Tranexamic acid injection?

Appeared in: BTSC Staff Nurse 30July-2025

Explanation

Tranexamic acid is classified as an antifibrinolytic agent.
Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the breakdown of fibrin, which is the main component of a blood clot. It blocks plasminogen from converting to plasmin, the enzyme that dissolves clots.
By preventing fibrinolysis (clot breakdown), it helps to stabilize clots and control or prevent excessive bleeding.
It is indicated for conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage, bleeding after surgery, and trauma.

Option A: This option describes the function of antiarrhythmic drugs. Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic and has no effect on cardiac rhythm.
Option C: This option describes the function of antibiotics. MRSA is a bacterial infection.
Option D: This option also describes the function of antibiotics. VRSA is a bacterial infection.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacology of Tranexamic Acid as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Tranexamic acid is a vital drug in emergency medicine and obstetrics, particularly for managing massive hemorrhage. Early administration in trauma and postpartum hemorrhage has been shown to reduce mortality.
Nurses must be aware of the contraindications, such as a history of thromboembolic disease (e.g., DVT, PE), as tranexamic acid promotes clotting and can increase the risk of thrombotic events.
A key nursing intervention is to monitor for signs of thrombosis (e.g., leg pain/swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath) and to administer the IV injection slowly, as rapid injection can cause hypotension.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the drug in the question: Tranexamic acid.
Recall or determine the drug's classification. Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic agent.
Understand the meaning of the classification. 'Anti-fibrinolytic' means it works against the lysis (breakdown) of fibrin (clots). Therefore, its purpose is to promote clotting or prevent clots from breaking down.
Evaluate the options based on this understanding. Option B, 'To control or prevent excessive or heavy bleeding,' directly aligns with the function of an antifibrinolytic drug.
Eliminate the other options by identifying their respective drug classes. Arrhythmias are treated by antiarrhythmics, and infections (MRSA/VRSA) are treated by antibiotics. Tranexamic acid fits neither of these categories.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 2 p. 119-121

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 87-93

Practise the full BTSC Staff Nurse 30July-2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.