The Educational Effectiveness for Atrial Fibrillation Patients Under Warfarin Treatment

The Educational Effectiveness for Atrial Fibrillation Patients Under Warfarin Treatment

The objective of this study is to evaluate an educational program for Atrial Fibrillation patients under Warfarin treatment regarding to patients' knowledge of Warfarin, related life distresses and quality of life.

This is a parallel-group randomized controlled study. Four measurements were (a) knowledge of Warfarin; (b) life distresses caused by Warfarin treatment; and (c) quality of life as primary and secondary endpoint. All participants participated in a face-to-face interview during the pretest and at the 6-month follow-up in the outpatient department (OPD). Each subject in the experimental group was taught face-to-face individually according to investigator's brochure in the OPD by researchers trained in a standardized protocol. The control group received a brochure only.

Inclusion Criteria:

• diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation by a physician and taking Warfarin as treatment
• 20 years old or older
• clear consciousness for communication
• willingness to participate in research

Exclusion Criteria:

• can not communicate clearly
• without willingness to participate in research