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A nurse's guide to direct oral anticoagulants
1King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, England.
Nursing Standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)
|January 5, 2021
Summary
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) offer a safer, more convenient alternative to warfarin for anticoagulation. This article reviews DOACs for nurses, covering their uses, doses, and side effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Practice
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) represent a significant advancement in anticoagulant therapy.
- They offer advantages over traditional anticoagulants like warfarin sodium and low molecular weight heparin, including predictable efficacy and reduced monitoring needs.
- The evolving landscape of anticoagulation necessitates updated knowledge for healthcare professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide nurses with a comprehensive overview of currently licensed DOACs in the UK.
- To detail the indications, dosages, and potential side effects of these agents.
- To highlight key considerations for safe administration and patient care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of DOACs licensed in the UK.
- Synthesis of information regarding indications, dosing, pharmacokinetics, and adverse events.
- Focus on practical aspects relevant to nursing practice.
Main Results:
- DOACs offer predictable clinical effects, fixed dosing, and fewer interactions compared to warfarin.
- Key DOACs available in the UK are discussed with their specific profiles.
- Common side effects and important administration considerations are outlined.
Conclusions:
- Nurses require up-to-date knowledge of DOACs to ensure safe and effective patient care.
- Understanding DOACs' unique properties is crucial for optimizing anticoagulation therapy.
- This article serves as a resource for nurses managing patients on DOACs.
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