What should be assessed in patients starting on anticoagulant therapy?

When initiating anticoagulant therapy, assessing renal function and bleeding risk is essential. Renal function is crucial because many anticoagulants are cleared through the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to drug accumulation and an increased risk of bleeding. Monitoring renal function ensures that the dosage can be adjusted appropriately to prevent adverse effects.

Evaluating bleeding risk is also vital because anticoagulants inherently increase the risk of bleeding events. Factors such as a patient's history of bleeding disorders, concurrent medications that can also affect coagulation, and their overall health status should be evaluated. This assessment aids healthcare providers in determining the safest approach to anticoagulation therapy tailored to the individual patient, ultimately enhancing treatment efficacy while minimizing potential complications.

The other options, while important in their own contexts, do not specifically address the immediate and critical considerations when starting anticoagulant therapy. Electrolyte levels, ability to exercise, and temperature and mental status are not primary concerns when beginning treatment with anticoagulants.