Coumadin Clinic (Anticoagulation Clinic)

St. James Hospital’s Coumadin Clinic provides education, blood testing and dosing instructions for patients that are taking Coumadin (Warfarin). The clinic is coordinated by a Registered Nurse and overseen by a house physician. The staff works closely with other members of your healthcare team to ensure your medical needs are addressed.

Studies have shown that patients who attend an anticoagulation clinic have better test results, better outcomes and fewer complications.

To Enroll

Your healthcare provider will complete an electronic referral form on Epic and forward it to the clinic. You will be contacted for an initial appointment. After your first appointment, you will be scheduled for a return date. We ask that you try to attend on the day you are scheduled or call to reschedule.

What Happens at Your Appointment

Most people who attend St. James Hospital’s Anticoagulation Clinic are on Coumadin (Warfarin). While on Coumadin, the patient needs to be monitored with a blood test called an INR (International Normalized Ratio). This test helps the RN determine the amount of Coumadin the patient needs to prevent blood clots and minimize side effects. The INR test is a simple finger stick and results are available within seconds. Results are then discussed between the patient and the nurse. Medication adjustment, along with education and bleeding assessment, will be done at that time. The patient is given written instructions on medication dose and when to return to the clinic.

Education

At St. James Hospital our Coumadin Clinic strives to educate our patient population on how to live a healthy lifestyle, including the following topics: 

• Discussion on how diet effects Coumadin
• How to take medication safely
• Review correct dosage
• Warning signs of high INR
• What to do if injured
• Clinic hours — feel free to come in/call at these times for questions or concerns
• Include family members/caregivers in appointments
• Adhere to St. James Hospital's policies/guidelines for anticoagulant therapy

The Anticoagulant Clinic will work closely with your referring healthcare provider. Your provider is contacted immediately about any problems or concerns. Your INR results are available in your medical record for your physician to review.