What potential complications should clients taking anticoagulants be made aware of?

Clients taking anticoagulants should be made aware of the risk of excessive bleeding because these medications work by inhibiting the blood's ability to clot. This anticoagulation effect is crucial for preventing thromboembolic events, such as strokes or heart attacks, but it comes with the serious risk of bleeding complications. Clients may experience prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased bruising, or bleeding in other parts of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract or brain. It is essential for clients to understand how to recognize signs of excessive bleeding and the importance of adhering to safety measures and monitoring their condition while on anticoagulant therapy. Failing to inform clients about this risk could lead to dangerous situations where they do not seek timely medical attention for bleeding events.