Develop practical expertise in direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), from understanding their pharmacology to applying treatment decisions in individual patients. This clinically focused course from Helicon Health draws on current clinical standards and scientific evidence to explore the safe and effective use of DOAC therapy.

The course examines how each DOAC works and how differences in pharmacokinetics, patient characteristics and clinical circumstances influence treatment choices. Learners will explore patient selection, dosing and monitoring, with consideration of renal and hepatic function, weight and clinically important drug interactions.

The course goes beyond prescribing considerations to address the practical management of patients receiving DOACs. Topics include switching between anticoagulants, managing treatment around procedures, adverse effects, bleeding and reversal. The evidence supporting DOAC use in atrial fibrillation is also considered.

Patient education is an important component, providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge to give clear, practical advice that supports adherence and safe use.

What you’ll learn

• Explain the mechanisms of action of the four DOACs
• Compare DOACs with vitamin K antagonists and consider appropriate patient selection
• Apply pharmacokinetic and patient-specific factors to DOAC selection and dosing
• Identify clinically important drug, dietary and alcohol interactions
• Understand approaches to switching between anticoagulants
• Describe the management of DOACs around procedures
• Recognise adverse effects and bleeding and understand their management
• Understand appropriate monitoring and ongoing review
• Provide effective patient education on safe DOAC use

Course duration is approximately 4 hours

More information can be found at https://learn.invitaintelligence.com/