Course information

This is a fully funded CPD training session for qualified Nurses/Nursing Associates/AHPs working in Primary Care.

The course is for practitioners new to warfarin management who have not previously attended a comprehensive course.

Warfarin management in primary care has been an established service which has significantly improved patient care in terms of access and choice. Without appropriate training to meet nationally and locally defined competencies this service cannot be delivered safely and effectively.

This course is designed to enable competent practitioners to safely and effectively manage a primary care based warfarin clinic using near patient testing for INR estimating, interpreting INR results and determining the dose of warfarin in order to maintain results within their appropriate therapeutic ranges.

It involves two days of comprehensive training – the first day covering the theory and essential learning relating to anticoagulation and the second day covers the practical aspects including monitoring and dosing of warfarin and using computer decision software. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs – formerly known as NOACs) are covered as essential learning and an important development in the appropriate management of a diverse range of patients.

Course content

The course was accredited by the former Derbyshire PCTs and has been delivered for more than ten years, training most of the practitioners currently delivering anticoagulation services across Derbyshire.

Day one includes:
• Overview of anticoagulation and How Warfarin works
• Stroke Prevention and Atrial Fibrillation
• Indications for Warfarin and BSH Guidelines
• Initiation and Management of Warfarin
• Setting up a clinic – including counselling patients
• Case Scenarios: dealing with problems
• Warfarin and drug interactions
• Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs): Place in treatment, Indications and risks

Day two includes:
• Service specification / Commissioning update
• Safe practice: NPSA and local serious incidents
• National External Quality Assurance Scheme for Near Patient Testing
• CoaguChek XS Plus Meter: Includes set up, testing, quality control and practical overview
• Computer Decision Making Software Overview
• Governance and legal responsibilities
• Written Assessment: 40 Multiple choice questions (part of the competency assurance process)

Each delegate will receive a comprehensive resource pack which includes handouts of presentations

Course eligibility

You must be a registered nurse to access this course.

PLEASE NOTE: The two day event is for practitioners new to anticoagulation management. You must attend both days.

This CPD course is for Practice Nurses and Allied Health Care Professionals. Please check here if you are eligible for these funded courses.

By applying for any of these training courses, you/your practice will not be able to also claim your £333 allocated CPD funding.