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DOAC bleeding counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyPatient Counselling and Pharmaceutical CareDOAC bleeding counsellingGPhC CRA

A patient starts rivaroxaban for AF. They ask what bleeding symptoms should make them seek urgent help. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Seek urgent help for black stools, coughing blood, severe headache or uncontrolled bleeding

DOACs increase bleeding risk, and symptoms such as melaena, haemoptysis, severe headache after possible intracranial bleeding, or uncontrolled bleeding need urgent assessment. Minor bruising should still be discussed if concerning but does not automatically require stopping for a month. NSAIDs and aspirin can increase bleeding risk. The patient should know adherence is also important for stroke prevention.

Reference: BNF