Abstract
Aims: We aim to find out the factors affecting the use of anticoagulants
and the intensity of their choices, and to establish a basis for
improving neurologists’ effective implementation of the guidelines.
Methods: A cross-sectional study is conducted in Hubei province in
central China. Each neurologist completes a standard-structured
anonymous questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. The problems
include the attitude and options about anticoagulant therapy. Results: A
total of 611 neurologists from 38 hospitals respond to this survey. For
the best treatment of atrial fibrillation, more than 80% of physicians
choose anticoagulant therapy. For patients with atrial fibrillation and
cerebral infarction, physicians think Warfarin is the preferred drug as
high as 93.8%. Among the anticoagulant drugs ever used by clinicians,
the use rate of Warfarin is 93.8%, but the use rate of direct oral
anticoagulants is extremely low. The use of direct oral anticoagulants
is related to the educational level and the geographical location of the
hospital. Bleeding risk is the first reason influencing clinicians’
choice of Warfarin, accounts for 88.9%. 97.7% of the clinicians
recommend patients with Warfarin regularly monitoring the INR, but the
frequency of monitoring is inconsistent. Clinicians have a high
willingness to learn about AF, but the proportion of hospitals carry out
appropriate training is low. Conclusions: There are still some gaps with
the guidelines on the choice of anticoagulant drugs. Neurologists have
positive attitude towards anticoagulant therapy and a strong willingness
to learn, but the corresponding training is lacking. Continuous
professional training is necessary.