What is an important nursing intervention when caring for a patient taking anticoagulants?

In caring for a patient taking anticoagulants, the most important nursing intervention is to monitor for signs of bleeding and to conduct regular laboratory testing for coagulation levels. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants, are used to prevent the formation of blood clots, which can reduce the risk of conditions such as stroke or deep vein thrombosis. However, these medications also increase the risk of bleeding.

By closely monitoring the patient for signs of bleeding—such as unusual bruising, blood in urine or stool, or prolonged bleeding from cuts—the nurse can quickly identify any complications that may arise from the anticoagulant therapy. Additionally, regular laboratory testing, such as INR (international normalized ratio) for patients on warfarin, is essential to ensure that the patient's blood coagulation levels remain within the therapeutic range. This helps tailor the anticoagulant dosage to minimize risks while providing effective treatment.

Other interventions might be important for a patient's overall health and well-being but do not specifically address the unique risks associated with anticoagulant therapy. For instance, monitoring for signs of infection is generally crucial for various patient populations but does not directly relate to the effects of anticoagulants. Similarly, while fluid intake and physical activity