What adverse effect should a nurse monitor in a client receiving enoxaparin?

Enoxaparin is a low molecular weight heparin used for anticoagulation purposes, primarily to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. One of the significant adverse effects associated with the use of enoxaparin is thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. This condition can result from heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), where the body develops antibodies against heparin-platelet factor 4 complexes.

Monitoring platelet counts in patients receiving enoxaparin is crucial because thrombocytopenia can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, making it essential for the nurse to identify any drops in platelet levels early. Patients with thrombocytopenia may not exhibit any symptoms until the condition becomes serious, leading to complications. Therefore, vigilant monitoring can prevent adverse outcomes associated with this side effect.

While the other options listed may have their implications in different clinical scenarios, none are specifically tied to the use of enoxaparin in the way that thrombocytopenia is. Hence, understanding the importance of monitoring for thrombocytopenia is vital for the safe administration of enoxaparin in clinical practice.