An anticoagulation therapy elective for third-year pharmacy students.
OBJECTIVE
To develop an anticoagulation elective course for third-year pharmacy students to enhance their knowledge and skills for providing anticoagulation services.


METHODS
Content developed for the course focused on standards of care, evaluation of primary literature, clinical application, billing and regulatory issues, written and verbal communication, and patient education. Teaching methods included lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and self-directed learning.


RESULTS
Assessment methods included multiple-choice examinations, evaluation of patient cases, student presentations, and a practical examination. Students demonstrated competencies in multiple areas and rated the course favorably. Students who completed the elective reported being more prepared for anticoagulation activities than those who did not. Confidence levels regarding participation in anticoagulation services postgraduation were similar.


CONCLUSIONS
The elective provided valuable experience in anticoagulation therapy and increased students' perception of their preparedness related to dealing with anticoagulation issues while on advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs). More exposure to management topics and the logistics of initiating anticoagulation services should be incorporated.
Hornsby
Lori B
LB
Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Georgia, USA.
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D032882:Comprehension; D003479:Curriculum; D004512:Education, Pharmacy; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006126:Group Processes; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D010465:Perception; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013339:Students, Pharmacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D000925:Anticoagulants