Self-audit: Review of oral anticoagulation with acenocoumarol for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in a primary care setting. When should we switch to Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants?

Abstract

Title: Self-audit: Review of oral anticoagulation with acenocoumarol for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in a primary care setting. When should we switch to Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants?

Objectives: To evaluate the degree of control in patients diagnosed with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and receiving oral anticoagulant treatment with acenocoumarol from a primary care facility.

Design: Observational study by reviewing the medical records of patients from a primary care facility to retrospectively assess oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) monitoring.

Site: Primary care, Mos’ Health Center.

Measurements/Methods: The electronic medical records of 75 patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation were included and reviewed. The time in therapeutic range was measured for the last 10 OAT check-ups.

Results: Of the patients who were anticoagulated with acenocoumarol and diagnosed with non-valvular AF, 47% had a TRT <70% and met the criteria for switching to Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs)?

Conclusions: It is important to identify patients receiving poorly controlled acenocoumarol. DOACs offer a more convenient option with fewer dietary restrictions compared to acenocoumarol, although cost may be a factor to consider.