Abstract:
Warfarin (vitamin K antagonist) is effective for the management of thromboembolic disorders. However, continued use of warfarin is challenged by its complex pharmacology and inherent risk of adverse outcomes which needs drug monitoring to ensure safe and effective therapy. The purpose of the study is to examine the knowledge of anticoagulation and its relationship with international normalized ratio control among patients, after discharge from hospital. A cross sectional survey was conducted at the National Cardiothoracic Center and one hundred and seventy-five (175) respondents were randomly selected. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. Questionnaires were administered to determine the demographic characteristics, clinical details and knowledge of warfarin therapy. Medical records were reviewed to determine anticoagulation control over a period of six weeks. Findings revealed that 51% of respondents were females and 42.9% were males, with a mean age of 37.6±7.5 years. Eighty eight point six percent of the respondents had been on warfarin for more than four months. Fifty one point two percent had good knowledge on how warfarin works whilst more than 8o% of the respondents knew about the side effects of warfarin therapy. There was a significant correlation between level of knowledge and anticoagulation control. In conclusion, the study revealed that respondents had adequate knowledge on warfarin and it was related to international normalized ratio control. There were concerns about cost of regular blood test and medications.
