The Role of the Pharmacist in Developing Critical Pathways with Warfarin Therapy

The pharmacist can play a key role in the development of critical pathways for disease states with warfarin as a component of therapy. The pharmacist must be familiar with the complex therapeutic considerations involved with warfarin therapy. This paper will briefly review warfarin therapeutics and will discuss strategies for pharmacist involvement in development of critical pathways including warfarin therapy. Participation in the multidisciplinary planning of critical pathways provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to the efficient, safe, and cost-effective use of warfarin.