Abstract

This article discusses the indications, options, and possible interpretations of the results of DOACs’ laboratory measurements, based on clinical guidelines and scientific articles. However, many questions about this topic remain, and new information is published every year. When determining DOACs’ effects with laboratory methods, several nuances described in the article must be kept in mind, the neglect of which may complicate the interpretation of the results or lead the clinician astray. Also, the routine coagulation tests (INR, PT, APTT) do not adequately reflect the presence of a clinically significant effect of DOACs. Cooperation between the clinician and the laboratory staff is important, focusing especially on the correct ordering of the analysis and adding the necessary information to the order (for example, the time and dose of DOAC administration, the patient’s diagnosis, the medications used, the need for the use of DOAC-Stop).