Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: Background
Many children taking warfarin perform their international normalized ratio (INR) at home, with results phoned to a clinician who instructs warfarin dosing. Data suggest that parents can be supported to make warfarin dosing decisions themselves, a process known as patient self-management (PSM).Objectives
This study aimed to determine the suitability and acceptability of warfarin PSM in children using the Epic Patient Portal.Methods
Children currently performing INR patient self-testing were eligible. Participation involved an individualized education session, adherence to the PSM program, and participation in phone interviews. Clinical outcomes (INR time in therapeutic range and safety outcomes), patient portal functionality, and family experience were assessed. The hospital human research ethics committee approved the study and consent was obtained from parents/guardians.Results
Twenty-four families undertook PSM. The median age of children was 11 years and all children had congenital heart disease. A median of 13 INRs was uploaded to the portal per family (range, 8-47) across a 10-month period. Before PSM, the mean time the INR was in therapeutic range was 71%; this increased to 79.9% during PSM (difference: P < .001). No adverse events were encountered. Eight families participated in a phone interview. The major theme identified was empowerment; minor themes that emerged included "gaining knowledge," "trust and responsibility builds confidence," "saving time," and "resources as a safety net."Conclusion
This study demonstrates that communication via the Epic Patient Portal is satisfactory to families and offers a suitable option for PSM for children. Importantly, PSM empowers and builds confidence in families to facilitate management of their child's health.
SUBMITTER: Jones S
PROVIDER: S-EPMC9986642 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Jones Sophie S Hislop Jodi L JL Gilmore Hollie H Greenway Anthea A Hibbard James J Monagle Paul P Newall Fiona F
Research and practice in thrombosis and haemostasis 20230203 2
<h4>Background</h4>Many children taking warfarin perform their international normalized ratio (INR) at home, with results phoned to a clinician who instructs warfarin dosing. Data suggest that parents can be supported to make warfarin dosing decisions themselves, a process known as patient self-management (PSM).<h4>Objectives</h4>This study aimed to determine the suitability and acceptability of warfarin PSM in children using the Epic Patient Portal.<h4>Methods</h4>Children currently performing ...[more]