What is a common complication to watch for after administering tPA?

After administering tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), a critical complication to monitor for is the occurrence of bleeding. tPA is a thrombolytic agent used primarily in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke to dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the affected part of the brain. However, the dissolution of clots can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, both in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage) and externally (such as gastrointestinal bleeding or hematoma formation).

Monitoring for signs of bleeding is essential, as it can manifest in various ways, including changes in neurological status (which could indicate intracerebral bleeding), as well as observable external symptoms like bruising or blood from puncture sites. Additionally, the timing for these complications can often occur in the first 24 hours post-administration, making vigilant assessment crucial during this period.

In contrast, while allergic reactions, infection risk, or blood clot formation can be considerations within the broader context of medical treatment, they are not the primary concern following tPA administration. Allergic reactions are rare, the risk of infection is not directly associated with the thrombolytic agent itself, and although there is a general risk of blood clot formation, tPA specifically aims to prevent further