Oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation: mini audit

Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly increases stroke risk, yet oral anticoagulants (OACs) are underutilised or inappropriately prescribed. Optimising anticoagulation therapy through proper risk assessment and initiation can prevent disabling strokes and improve patient outcomes. Understanding bleeding risk factors and tailoring treatment decisions is essential for safe and effective stroke prevention in AF.

During the audit you will learn to:

• Identify patients with AF who are not on an oral anticoagulant and explore potential reasons for non-prescription.

• Assess stroke risk using the CHA₂DS₂-VA score and other evidence-based risk stratification tools.

• Recognise and manage modifiable risk factors that contribute to both stroke risk and bleeding risk in AF patients.

• Implement shared decision-making strategies to develop patient-centred anticoagulation plans.

• Support patient adherence to anticoagulation therapy through education, risk-benefit discussions, and tailored interventions.

• Improve confidence in discussing oral anticoagulant therapy with patients to enhance safe and effective use.

This program is accredited for 3 hours of CPD, Educational Activities: 0.5 hours and Measuring Outcomes: 2.5 hours, satisfying requirements for professional development in areas of patient safety and medication management. Completion of a post-session quiz and an audit activity will secure your CPD credits.

This Continuing Medical Education (CME) educational session is brought to you by Medcast and the Quality Use of Medicines Alliance. 

For more free Quality Use of Medicines education, check out QHUB on Medcast