[pavulon]

People can't really have their labs continuously monitored with ease. Labs can be monitored closely but that requires obtaining blood from a patient who's already bleeding. Blood pressure can be continuously monitored with a arterial line or some other less common devices but that takes place in an ICU for pretty ill folk. Heart rate/rhythm can be monitored continuously pretty easily.

Subtle (or marked) mentation changes can be monitored by family that know the patient well and can be early indicators of changes in lab values and/or blood pressure (blood supply to the brain). Little things can be clues but can make folks paranoid as well.

Be pleasant and thank the hospital staff as much as you can. Right or wrong, they'll take better care of your loved one if they like you.

Again, best of luck!!