Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: Improving Patient Adherence to Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Therapy

Although evidence-based treatment guidelines recommend low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) monotherapy for cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT), adherence to outpatient treatment guidelines for CAT still needs improvement. One of the challenges that clinicians face in treating CAT with LMWH is patient preference for oral anticoagulants over daily LMWH injections. This article aims to provide oncology nurses with practical advice on patient education to increase patient acceptance of and adherence to LMWH treatment for CAT.

AT A GLANCE

• CAT is a major complication that affects patients with cancer throughout the course of their illness.
• LMWH is effective and safe, and is the preferred treatment for CAT.
• As patient advocates, oncology nurses can promote treatment acceptance and compliance among patients with CAT.