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