EVALUATING THE ROLE OF PHARMACIST COUNSELING ON PATIENT KNOWLEDGE AND SAFETY IN WARFARIN USE

Abstract

Warfarin is a widely used oral anticoagulant with a narrow therapeutic index, requiring careful monitoring and patient adherence to prevent adverse events such as bleeding or thrombosis. Patient knowledge regarding dosage, dietary restrictions, drug interactions, and monitoring is critical for safe and effective therapy. This study evaluates the impact of pharmacist-led counseling on patients’ understanding and management of warfarin therapy. Patients receiving counseling were assessed using structured questionnaires before and after educational interventions, focusing on key aspects of therapy, safety precautions, and adherence practices. Results indicate a significant improvement in patient knowledge and awareness post-counseling, with a marked reduction in misconceptions regarding drug interactions, INR monitoring, and lifestyle modifications. The findings highlight the vital role of pharmacists as educators in anticoagulation therapy, emphasizing the importance of structured counseling to enhance patient safety, adherence, and clinical outcomes.