Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Practice Exam

Which laboratory finding is associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

1. Increased platelets

2. Decreased PT/INR

3. Decreased fibrinogen

4. Normal aPTT

The correct answer is: Decreased fibrinogen

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a serious condition characterized by systemic activation of the clotting cascade, leading to the formation of small blood clots throughout the body's blood vessels. One of the hallmark laboratory findings in DIC is decreased fibrinogen levels. Fibrinogen is a crucial protein involved in the coagulation process; during DIC, it is consumed rapidly due to extensive clot formation, leading to diminished levels in the bloodstream. As the coagulation process becomes overwhelmed, the body uses up its clotting factors, including fibrinogen, which results in bleeding complications as well. This decrease in fibrinogen levels is a key indicator of DIC and helps in differentiating it from other coagulation disorders. In contrast, the other options do not reflect the typical laboratory findings associated with DIC. Increased platelets would not be expected in this condition, as platelet consumption occurs due to activation of the coagulation cascade. An increased PT/INR is typically observed, indicating a coagulopathy, rather than a decreased PT/INR. Similarly, a normal aPTT might not provide information consistent with the widespread clotting and subsequent bleeding seen in DIC, as the aPTT may increase depending