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Coumadin Clinic

What is a Coumadin® Clinic?

A Coumadin® or Anticoagulation clinic is a simple, convenient way to monitor and assist patients taking Coumadin® and other brands of anticoagulant or blood-thinning medication.  The Green Clinic Coumadin Clinic specializes in dosing and monitoring of drug activity for our patients who take Coumadin or warfarin and is staffed by clinical personnel trained in anti-coagulation management.

Why a Coumadin® Clinic?

As a patient taking anticoagulants, you should be aware of the potential for side effects that can occur if the medication is not properly monitored.  Research shows that participating in an anticoagulation clinic may decrease complications caused by blood-thinning medications.

What are the Benefits of Participating?

  • Decreased risk of complications
  • Immediate results while you are at the clinic
  • One-on-one contact with a healthcare professional
  • Better anticoagulant monitoring/management
  • Increased access to education and support

How Does it Work?

As a patient of the Clinic, you will be required to attend a private appointment with the nurse every four to six weeks. She/he will take a drop of your blood by finger stick and analyze your PT/INR (Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio) level. Results will be reviewed with you and any appropriate adjustments to your medication will be prescribed. All this in about 15 minutes time. Additionally, you will learn about the complications, diet, and drug interactions related to Coumadin.

What to Expect

  • When you start taking Coumadin, you may require frequent blood tests, usually once a week, until the correct dosage has been determined.
  • After the dose has been regulated, tests will occur less frequently, although to ensure safety you must continue to have your blood tested every four to six weeks.
  • The INR tests are by appointment only.
  • Visits are quick, about 15 minutes.
  • You will receive your test result immediately.  The nurse uses these results to determine what dose of Coumadin you need to take and when to schedule your next INR test.
  • You will receive a dosage calendar to follow until your next visit.
  • You can discuss any Coumadin-related questions you have with the nurse.

Where Do I Have the Test Done?

Thr Coumadin Clinic is located on the 2nd floor of Green Clinic, just down the hall from the Cardiology Department.

To schedule, reschedule or cancel an appointment for a finger stick test, please call (318) 251-6248.