A client is prescribed heparin 5,000 units subcutaneously every 12 hours for deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis. The pharmacy dispenses a vial containing 10,000 units/1 ml. How many milliliter(s) of heparin should the nurse administer?

Answer: The nurse should administer 0.5 mL of heparin.

Rationale: Set up a proportion (dose on hand/quantity on hand = dose desired/X ) . 10,000 units/1 mL = 5,000 units/X . Calculate: 10,000 units × X = 5,000 units × 1 mL . Solve for X : X = 5,000 units × 1 mL/10,000 units = 0.5 mL .