Discharge instructions for VTE have typically included medication management recommendations related to the use of warfarin. In recent years, however, a growing number of alternatives to warfarin, such as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and other anticoagulants are being more widely used. These medications eliminate many of the complex monitoring challenges associated with warfarin, but are not without safety concerns. Since January 1, 2017, Joint Commission surveyors have identified multiple compliance issues, across hospital, nursing care and ambulatory health care settings, associated with the provision of appropriate patient education around the use of anticoagulant medications. It is important that all patients discharged on anticoagulants receive clear, comprehensive, and up-to-date education and discharge instructions so they can manage their treatment in a way that is both safe and effective.

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