What should a nurse monitor when a patient is on anticoagulant therapy?

Monitoring coagulation levels is crucial for a patient on anticoagulant therapy because these medications are designed to prevent blood clots by altering the blood's ability to clot. Regular assessment of coagulation parameters, such as INR (International Normalized Ratio) for warfarin or aPTT (activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) for heparin, helps ensure that the patient's blood remains within a target therapeutic range, minimizing the risks of both thrombosis and excessive bleeding.

While blood sugar levels, heart rate, and respiratory rate are important vital signs to monitor in various clinical situations, they are not specifically related to the effects of anticoagulants. Blood sugar levels are more pertinent in diabetes management, heart rate is relevant in assessing cardiac function or arrhythmias, and respiratory rate is important for evaluating respiratory function. However, in the context of anticoagulant therapy, the primary concern remains the patient’s coagulation status to ensure safe and effective treatment.