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Published on: February 26, 2013
European cardiac nurses' current practice and knowledge on anticoagulation therapy
Kjersti Oterhals1, Christi Deaton, Sabina De Geest
11Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Norway.
European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|May 29, 2013
Summary
European nurses show gaps in knowledge regarding anticoagulation therapy management, impacting patient care. Improving education on warfarin and novel anticoagulants is crucial for minimizing adverse effects and optimizing treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Education
Background:
- Effective patient counseling and education are vital for managing anticoagulation therapies, including warfarin and newer agents.
- Existing research suggests healthcare professionals may lack comprehensive knowledge for accurate patient guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess European cardiovascular nurses' knowledge of anticoagulation therapy management.
- To determine if educational background and clinical experience influence this knowledge.
Main Methods:
- A 47-item questionnaire surveyed nurses at a 2012 European conference on anticoagulation management practices and knowledge.
- The survey covered warfarin, new anticoagulants, drug/food interactions, and self-management of International Normalized Ratio (INR).
Main Results:
- 206 nurses responded (32% rate); 84% had direct patient contact.
- Warfarin is the most used oral anticoagulant; one-third of nurses supported patient self-management of INR.
- Nurses in direct patient care scored higher, but overall knowledge on warfarin and drug interactions was low.
Conclusions:
- European cardiac nurses require enhanced knowledge and practice in oral anticoagulation therapy.
- Improved expertise is essential for delivering optimal patient care and reducing treatment-related adverse events.
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