During heparin therapy, which finding should a nurse report as an adverse effect of the medication?

Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, is a significant adverse effect associated with heparin therapy. Heparin is an anticoagulant that increases the risk of bleeding by inhibiting clot formation. When a patient experiences hematuria, it indicates that bleeding is occurring within the urinary tract, which requires prompt evaluation and intervention. This finding could suggest serious complications such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia or an overdose of heparin, necessitating immediate communication with the healthcare provider to assess the patient's condition and adjust the treatment as needed.

In contrast, while vomiting, a positive Chvostek's sign (which is indicative of hypocalcemia), and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) can indicate various issues, they are not direct adverse effects of heparin therapy. Vomiting may occur due to numerous factors unrelated to heparin, and a positive Chvostek's sign pertains to electrolyte imbalances, rather than anticoagulation effects. Tinnitus can be associated with other medications or conditions, but it is not a specific concern when monitoring for complications from heparin use. Recognizing hematuria as a potentially serious symptom allows healthcare providers to intervene early and mitigate risks associated with anticoag