ADLM publishes guidance on optimizing coagulation testing for patients on blood thinners
The ADLM has published new guidelines to improve coagulation testing accuracy in patients taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), emphasizing selective testing and enhanced communication between clinicians and laboratories.
The goal of this action is to guarantee these patients get accurate results, leading to the correct treatment. Blood thinners can interfere with coagulation testing, according to ADLM. The new guidance was put together by experts selected by ADLM and analyzes previous research. They suggest only performing clot-based testing when necessary. In these situations, they recommend taking action to lessen the effects of direct oral anticoagulants. They also stress the importance of communication between physicians and the lab.
The authors concluded, “Clinicians ordering coagulation testing for patients taking DOACs should approach these scenarios thoughtfully, as this requires discretion to determine appropriate and optimal timing for testing.”
