Clinical Research Directory

Developing Anticoagulation Self-Report Measure in Adults

The use of oral anticoagulants has been increasing globally to prevent strokes associated with atrial fibrillation and heart valve replacements. Patients on long-term anticoagulation have the option to self-test their blood clotting time using point-of-care testing equipment (POCT). They can choose to self-manage their medication dosage or self-monitor and seek dose adjustments from a clinic. Studies have shown that self-testing approaches are effective and cost-effective. However, future research should focus on understanding the factors that influence people's preparedness for self-testing, such as health literacy, self-efficacy, and perceived support. Assessing preparedness is crucial for tailoring healthcare delivery and supporting patient education. Highlighting preparedness can also encourage the adoption of self-testing approaches in countries facing barriers to implementation.