Warfarin anticoagulation: a survey of patients' knowledge of their treatment.

Authors :: Moran SM
Fitzgerald N
Pope M
Madden M
Vaughan CJ
Source :: Irish journal of medical science [Ir J Med Sci] 2011 Dec; Vol. 180 (4), pp. 819-22. Date of Electronic Publication: 2011 Jun 25.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: Introduction: Warfarin is used for the treatment of thromboembolic disease. It requires careful and sustained monitoring due to its narrow therapeutic index and potentially life-threatening complications. Patient education and knowledge is, therefore, vital.<br />Aims: To assess, in a specialised anticoagulation clinic, the extent of patients' knowledge of their warfarin treatment.<br />Methods: Ethical approval was obtained. All patients, aged over 18 years, attending our anticoagulation clinic during our study period were asked to participate.<br />Results: We enrolled 181 patients, 47.9% of respondents were unaware of any potential drug interactions, 57.7% of patients were unaware of any potential side effects, 20% of patients had experienced side effects, 10.9% of patients had been hospitalised due to side effects, 58% of which were due to Haemorrhage and 79% of patients kept a personal record of their INR.<br />Conclusions: Patients' understanding of warfarin treatment was poor, despite their high level of compliance.