Focus on Adult Health Practice Exam

The correct choice is monitoring for petechiae, as these small, red or purple spots on the skin indicate bleeding under the skin. In patients receiving continuous IV heparin, which is an anticoagulant medication, there is an increased risk of bleeding due to its mechanism of action, which prevents blood clot formation.

Petechiae can be one of the earliest and most visible signs of bleeding complications associated with anticoagulant therapy. These spots occur when tiny blood vessels, or capillaries, break and bleed into the skin. Observing for signs like petechiae is crucial for timely intervention, as it may signal that the patient is experiencing excessive bleeding, which could escalate to more severe complications.

While other signs mentioned in the options could suggest issues that might indirectly relate to bleeding or other health problems, they are not specific indicators of bleeding. For example, an increased heart rate may suggest a range of conditions, including dehydration or pain, while skin rash could indicate an allergic reaction or other dermatological conditions. A headache, depending on the context, could suggest many issues, including tension or migraines. They do not directly point to bleeding risk in the context of anticoagulation therapy like petechiae does.