What is a common side effect of Heparin administration?

Heparin is an anticoagulant commonly used to prevent and treat blood clots. One of the primary side effects associated with Heparin administration is bleeding. This occurs because Heparin inhibits the clotting process, making it difficult for blood to coagulate properly. This can manifest as unusual bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or more serious internal bleeding events, which can be particularly dangerous.

Monitoring for signs of bleeding is crucial in patients receiving Heparin therapy, as bleeding complications can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Administering the correct dose and closely observing the patient's clotting status through laboratory tests like aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) can help mitigate this risk. Therefore, recognizing bleeding as a primary side effect of Heparin is essential for patient safety and effective nursing care.