Co-Author(s):
Julianne Murthi, MSN, FNP
MCPHS
19 Foster St, Worcester, MA 01608
Introduction | Objectives:
Purpose: The aim of this project is to determine if warfarin or direct
oral anticoagulants are more effective at preventing adverse outcomes in
those who have a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. Background:Atrial Fibrillation is a disease that effects millions of individuals
with high levels of morbidity and mortality due to its complications.
Oral anticoagulants are used to help prevent adverse effects in the
safest and most effective way possible. Objective: To determine
which oral anticoagulant is the safest and effective to use in those
with atrial fibrillation.
Methods:
Methods: A systematic review of published studies was completed to
determine which oral anticoagulant would be the safest and most
effective anticoagulant for those with a diagnosis of atrial
fibrillation.
Results:
Results: The use of apixaban decreases the risk of stroke and other
systemic embolisms in those with AFib, while also offering a decreased
risk of bleeding events due to use of an OAC.
Conclusions:
Implications for practice: The project has the potential to provide
APRNs guidance on understanding which oral anticoagulant is best suited
for their patient. APRNs and other prescribers will be able to identify
risks associated with prescribing treatment for their patients in order
to prevent adverse events. Limitations: Although well published
articles were used to determine the results, this research project was
not able to use primary data to complete the research and depending on
secondary data.
AFS 2021-10