Computer control of anticoagulant dose for therapeutic management.
OBJECTIVE
To improve the standard of managing anticoagulant treatment and provide a basis for therapeutic quality control.


METHODS
Implementation of a comprehensive computerised system for decision support.


METHODS
Three anticoagulation clinics in South Warwickshire.


METHODS
Patients in South Warwickshire receiving anticoagulant treatment from September 1988 to March 1989.


METHODS
International normalised ratio was measured and recorded at each visit.


RESULTS
688 Patients' visits were analysed statistically, and a 38% improvement was achieved in the results of international normalised ratios falling within the recommended therapeutic ranges of the British Society for Haematology.


CONCLUSIONS
The implementation of a computerised anticoagulation support system resulted in better management of patients. The system provides a basis for uniform management of treatment and a common platform for national or international trials.
Ryan
P J
PJ
Department of Haematology, South Warwickshire Hospital, Warwick.
Gilbert
M
M
Rose
P E
PE
D004360:Drug Therapy, Computer-Assisted; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted; D014859:Warfarin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D014859:Warfarin