What must be monitored when a patient is on long-term anticoagulant therapy?

Monitoring coagulation status is essential for patients on long-term anticoagulant therapy, as it ensures that the medication is effectively reducing the risk of thrombosis without causing excessive bleeding. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, require regular blood tests to assess the International Normalized Ratio (INR) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), depending on the specific medication used. These tests help to adjust dosages based on the patient’s response and prevent complications associated with both under- and over-anticoagulation.

In contrast, while blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and heart rate are important parameters in managing a patient's overall health, they are not specifically related to the safety and efficacy of anticoagulant therapy. For example, blood glucose monitoring is crucial for diabetic patients, but it does not provide relevant information regarding the anticoagulation status. Similarly, blood pressure and heart rate monitoring are vital in various conditions but do not indicate how well the anticoagulant is performing in preventing clots or managing bleeding risks. Thus, the focus on coagulation status is critical in ensuring patient safety during long-term anticoagulant treatment.