What is the main reason clients taking anticoagulants should have regular laboratory monitoring?

Clients taking anticoagulants should have regular laboratory monitoring primarily to monitor therapeutic drug levels. This is crucial because anticoagulants can significantly vary in their effects among individuals due to factors such as weight, age, genetic makeup, diet, and concomitant medications. Regular monitoring helps ensure that the drug remains within a therapeutic range that is effective for preventing clot formation while minimizing the risk of excessive bleeding.

Maintaining optimal drug levels is key in anticoagulation therapy since both subtherapeutic levels and supratherapeutic levels can lead to serious complications. Subtherapeutic levels may not prevent thromboembolic events, while supratherapeutic levels increase the risk of hemorrhage. Thus, consistent laboratory evaluations ensure that dosages are adjusted as necessary to maintain proper management of the client's condition.