The use of oral anticoagulants for patients with atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation is a common condition in the UK that puts patients at a higher risk of stroke if left untreated. Kelly Mulliss and Shona Green explore the reasons why patients may not be being prescribed oral anticoagulants to reduce this risk Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common condition in the older UK population and research states that it puts patients at a higher risk of stroke. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance suggests that patients at risk of stroke should be prescribed an oral anticoagulant (OAC). This article presents the findings of a clinical audit in a general practice and explores methods by which patient risk can be assessed. The authors offer suggestions as to why patients may not be receiving OAC when they are at risk, as well as ways in which health professionals in general practice may effectively implement NICE guidance and reduce the risk of stroke in their patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]