What main complication should a nurse monitor for in patients taking anticoagulant medications?

Patients taking anticoagulant medications are at an increased risk of bleeding due to the mechanism of action of these drugs, which is to inhibit the clotting process in the body. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), and heparins, are designed to prevent the formation of blood clots, making it essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients for any signs of excessive bleeding. This can include observable signs such as bruising, hematuria (blood in urine), or gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as laboratory indicators like elevated international normalized ratios (INR) in those on warfarin therapy.

While other complications, such as infections, nausea, and gastric ulcers, can occur in patients with various health conditions or those taking different types of medications, the risk of bleeding is a primary concern linked directly to the action of anticoagulants. Vigilant monitoring and management of bleeding risks are critical components in the care of patients receiving these medications to ensure their safety and optimize therapeutic outcomes.