Coumadin Clinic

The Coumadin Clinic is for patients that are on Coumadin (warfarin) therapy. Coumadin is a medication that is used to help thin the blood and there are many indications for its use. Some of the most common reasons for Coumadin use are atrial fibrillation, mechanical heart valves, and previous strokes.  Our Cardiologist or Physician Assistant will refer appropriate patients to our clinic and initiate the medication.

For successful treatment, the Coumadin levels in the blood must be monitored regularly to ensure effectiveness of therapy and limit potential adverse side effects. There are many different interactions with Coumadin (including medications and specific food), and our staff will provide information and guidance during your therapy.

A Registered Nurse will perform a blood test known as PT/INR when the patient arrives at the clinic. This is a simple ‘finger stick’ test requiring only a drop of blood rather than a typical blood draw and the results are available immediately. Otherwise if more convenient for you, you can have your blood drawn at a local laboratory (such as Quest) and have the results sent to us.  With this information, the Coumadin dose can be adjusted according to a manual prepared by our cardiologists to reach your target INR.

We ask that you take the evening dose of Coumadin prior to the next Coumadin clinic day so that we can appropriately adjust the medication.