Which of the following is a common complication seen with heparin therapy?

In the context of heparin therapy, one common complication is intra-abdominal bleeding. Heparin is an anticoagulant that works to prevent blood clot formation, which is essential for certain medical conditions but can also increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in areas with significant vascular supply such as the abdominal cavity.

When heparin is administered, it inhibits specific factors in the clotting cascade, leading to a decrease in the ability of the blood to form clots. This can manifest as bleeding in various regions, and intra-abdominal hemorrhage is particularly concerning due to the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of bleeding is crucial for patients receiving heparin, as early detection and management can be vital for patient safety.

In contrast, an increase in blood platelet count does not typically occur with heparin therapy; rather, heparin can lead to thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelet count) in some cases. Decreased activated Partial Thromboplastin time (aPTT) is also not a common result of heparin therapy, as the goal of heparin treatment is to prolong aPTT, indicating effective anticoagulation. Lastly, a hypertensive crisis is not a