Optimizing Oral Anticoagulation Therapy: Impact of Pharmacists Intervention in Patient Knowledge and International Normalized Ratio (INR) Control

Background: Oral Anticoagulant is a therapy indicated for thromboembolic disorders, which requires close observation of the international normalized ratio and patient education for better therapeutic outcomes. Management of Oral Anticoagulation Therapy (OAT) in cardiovascular disease is one greater concern because of numerous drug-related problems and non-compliance towards medications due to poor knowledge. As a result, the pharmacist offers patient counseling to improve knowledge. Therefore, the objective of this study is to compare the knowledge score of the patients about anticoagulation therapy and its impact on international normalized ratio levels in patients undergoing oral anticoagulation therapy. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled study among 102 patients in the Cardiology department. Patient information leaflet and patient counseling on oral anticoagulation therapy were given as Interventions. Knowledge level was assessed from the baseline and followed in the first and third months. Results: A total of 102 patients actively participated in the study. Considering the area of knowledge, no more significant difference was seen in either group (U=1018, p-value=0.058) during the pre-test. Following the intervention, a notable disparity was observed in the Intervention group (U=528.00, p=0.0001). The mean INR is significantly different between the control and intervention groups in the therapeutic range (t=-5.80, p=0.0001*) and the supratherapeutic range (t=-3.42, p=0.002*). Conclusion: A collaborative educational approach with a pharmacist helps to improve the patient's knowledge of anticoagulation control. Establishing a pharmacist-managed anticoagulation service for the benefit of patients so that a clinical pharmacist can manage anticoagulation effectively and provide the best treatment.