Warfarin is the most widely used vitamin K antagonist (blood thinner) in North America, with millions of patients receiving it daily. Warfarin is primarily used in the prevention and treatment of venous thrombosis, atrial fibrillation, artificial heart valve, pulmonary embolism, recurrent myocardial infarction, stroke, TIA, and thromboembolic disorders. The purpose of this project was to evaluate patients' knowledge of their diet in relation to their Warfarin using a survey. It was hypothesized that the majority of patients taking Warfarin do not understand the relationship between the medication and their diet in enough detail to be of any clinical significance. The researcher sought to use the data collected in order to improve patients' knowledge of how to follow the proper diet when receiving Warfarin. By better understanding what knowledge gaps exist, different education tools can be developed for patients who are beginning Warfarin and may also help provide updated information to patients already on this medication who may be having difficulties.
