The effect of self-monitoring the INR on quality of anticoagulation and quality of life

In a prospective cohort study the influence of self-monitoring of the Inter national Normalized Ratio (INR) was examined on 100 consecutive patients fo r a period of 6 months. Quality of life changed in a positive way. Independ ence and better organization of vacation and spare time were the most frequ ently mentioned advantages of the new method. Quality of anticoagulation by using a self-monitoring device was improved compared to the values before using the self-monitoring device. For measuring the INR, the usage of a por table monitor as the primary method can be recommended in selected patients receiving oral long-term anticoagulation.