title: The effect of self-monitoring the INR on quality of anticoagulation and quality of life.
abstract: In a prospective cohort study the influence of self-monitoring of the International Normalized Ratio (INR) was examined on 100 consecutive patients for a period of 6 months. Quality of life changed in a positive way. Independence and better organization of vacation and spare time were the most frequently mentioned advantages of the new method. Quality of anticoagulation by using a self-monitoring device was improved compared to the values before using the self-monitoring device. For measuring the INR, the usage of a portable monitor as the primary method can be recommended in selected patients receiving oral long-term anticoagulation.
mesh_terms: D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019934:International Normalized Ratio; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D012646:Self Administration / Q000523:psychology; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology