Which assessment should be included for patients receiving anticoagulants?

Monitoring for signs of internal bleeding is crucial for patients receiving anticoagulants, as these medications are designed to prevent blood clots but can also increase the risk of bleeding. Patients on anticoagulant therapy are particularly vulnerable to both minor and severe internal bleeding, which can present as symptoms such as unusual bruising, blood in urine or stool, or severe headache and dizziness, indicative of potential intracranial bleeding. Early detection of these signs can significantly impact patient safety and outcomes, allowing for timely intervention.

While assessing blood pressure is important in a comprehensive evaluation, it does not specifically address the risks associated with anticoagulant therapy. Checking blood glucose levels is necessary for patients with diabetes or those at risk but is not a direct concern of anticoagulation management. Evaluating kidney function is essential, especially since renal impairment can influence how anticoagulants are metabolized and excreted, but it does not directly relate to the immediate risks posed by the medications in terms of bleeding complications. Thus, monitoring for signs of internal bleeding is the most pertinent assessment for patients on anticoagulants.