Winner

Development of a novel anticoagulant patient alert card in the north of England
by Northern England Strategic Clinical Networks

Unlike the warfarin monitoring ‘yellow book’, there is no standard patient alert tool for the NOACs. This standardised card was developed for use across primary and secondary care within the north of England’s strategic clinical network.

Doctors, pharmacists and specialists participated in its developed process, as did local patient groups.

The card was designed to be easily recognisable, with a similar colour to the bright yellow warfarin monitoring books, and small enough to fit in a purse or wallet. Launched in April 2015 across the Network with supporting educational material, the card aims to increase patient knowledge about their treatment and inform and educate health professionals to improve patient safety.

Judges’ comment:

“The innovative approach of this entry met a distinct need for a generic card. It provides all the right information in one place, testament to the involvement of a broad range of stakeholders during its development. As a project it allows patients to take ownership of their health and condition, supporting the prevention agenda.”

Commended

NOACs – How to reduce the risks & increase compliance
by Yeovil District Hospital Foundation Trust

Yeovil District Hospital Foundation Trust has developed a silicone wrist alert band to guard against the accidental administration of a novel oral anticoagulant to patients who are not suitable to receive it.

Thanks to an educational grant, the Trust bought 600 red and blue bands. These were given to patients beginning NOAC treatment following a stroke, along with an alert wallet card and additional written information.

None of the patients refused the wrist band and all continue to wear it, regardless of age. The bands have resulted in increased adherence to treatment among patients.

Judges’ comment:

“This is a novel idea that has clear value in a specific setting, such as a nursing home with high-risk patients. The concept of raising awareness of these drugs and their effects through the use of a silicon band is a positive way of supporting the need for greater awareness and improved compliance and concordance.”