What is a common complication to monitor in a patient receiving heparin?

In patients receiving heparin, a key concern is the risk of bleeding. Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clot formation by inhibiting certain clotting factors in the blood. While this therapeutic action is beneficial for preventing thromboembolic events, it simultaneously increases the risk of hemorrhage. Monitoring for signs of bleeding is critical, as unchecked bleeding can lead to serious complications, including internal bleeding or a life-threatening hemorrhage.

Patients on heparin should be observed for various symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bruising, blood in urine or stool, prolonged bleeding from cuts, and signs of internal bleeding, such as abdominal pain or swelling. Regular monitoring of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is also essential to ensure that heparin levels remain within a safe therapeutic range.

The other options do not represent common complications associated with heparin therapy. Hypertension is not a direct effect of heparin; while it can occur in many patients for various reasons, it is not a known adverse reaction to heparin itself. Low blood sugar is not related to heparin use, as it primarily affects anticoagulation rather than glucose metabolism. Heart arrhythmias may occur in various clinical settings