A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has septic shock and is at risk for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Which of the following nursing statements indicates an understanding of the condition?

"DIC is controllable with lifelong heparin usage."

"DIC is a genetic disorder involving vitamin K deficiency."

"DIC is characterized by an elevated platelet count."

"DIC is caused by abnormal coagulation involving fibrinogen."