What should be monitored when a patient is prescribed anticoagulants during pregnancy?

Monitoring bleeding risk is critical when a patient is prescribed anticoagulants during pregnancy due to the potential for increased bleeding complications for both the mother and the fetus. Anticoagulants, such as heparin or warfarin, can significantly affect the blood's ability to clot, which raises concerns about hemorrhage during delivery and the postpartum period. Pregnant patients may already have a higher susceptibility to bleeding; therefore, it is essential to closely observe for any signs of bleeding, including bruising, hematuria, or gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as to monitor laboratory values like hemoglobin and hematocrit levels to ensure that the patient's blood count remains stable.

In addition to bleeding risk, other vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, can be important in assessing the overall health of the patient, but they are not as directly influenced by anticoagulant therapy. Electrolyte levels may be monitored for other specific medical conditions but are not a primary concern associated with anticoagulant use during pregnancy. Thus, the emphasis on bleeding risk underscores the need for vigilance in managing anticoagulant therapy to ensure maternal and fetal safety.