Patients receiving warfarin will often need to continue taking it after discharge from the hospital, and some may require warfarin therapy for a long time. It is important that patients receive education about the drug while they are in the hospital so they can manage their therapy properly at home. Patients who are knowledgeable about their medication therapy can help to reduce the risk of adverse drug events. Education should begin with the patient’s first dose of warfarin, and all patient education needs regular reinforcement.
Tips
- Educate patients as well as their family members or other people who live with the patients or assist with their care.
- Use patient-directed dosing as a way to ensure that patients understand what they are taught about managing their warfarin therapy.
- Continue education on an outpatient basis through a clinic or dosing service.
