What should a nurse monitor closely in a client receiving anticoagulant therapy?

Monitoring coagulation times in a client receiving anticoagulant therapy is essential because this directly assesses the effectiveness of the medication and helps prevent complications associated with bleeding. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin or heparin, work by interfering with the body's normal clotting process, and it's crucial to maintain an appropriate therapeutic range to balance the risk of clot formation against the risk of excessive bleeding.

For example, if a client is receiving warfarin, the prothrombin time (PT) or the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is typically monitored to ensure it remains within a target range for effective anticoagulation. In the case of heparin, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is monitored. Abnormal coagulation times can indicate that the anticoagulant dose is either too high, leading to bleeding complications, or too low, resulting in an increased risk of thrombosis.

Close monitoring of coagulation times provides critical information that informs dosage adjustments and overall treatment safety, ensuring that potential adverse effects are addressed promptly. This vigilance is a fundamental aspect of nursing care in clients on anticoagulants.