title: Understanding the implications of oral anticoagulation therapy.
abstract: Oral anticoagulation is an effective prophylactic or treatment measure for many indications (Baglin et al, 2005). Most patients on oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) take the drug warfarin. This article discusses how OAT is monitored, the factors affecting the stability and control of anticoagulation, and the importance of educating patients who are on OAT.
authors.affiliation: Milton Keynes Acute and Primary Care Trusts.
authors.forename: Davina
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Gallagher
authors.forename: Emma
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Rix
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004347:Drug Interactions; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000379:methods; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018579:Patient Selection
chemical_list: D000925:Anticoagulants