4CPS-087 Exploring the role of community pharmacists in perioperative antithrombotic management: barriers, facilitators, and future directions

<h3>Background and Importance</h3> Antithrombotic agents are considered as high-risk medications, particularly during the perioperative period because of the increased bleeding risk. Finding the balance between bleeding and thrombosis is crucial in case of invasive procedures. Today, the specific role of community pharmacists (CPs) in perioperative antithrombotic management remains unclear. <h3>Aim and Objectives</h3> This study aimed to explore the role of CPs in perioperative antithrombotic management, focusing on their experiences, patients’ questions, and the barriers and facilitators to expand their involvement. <h3>Material and Methods</h3> A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 13 CPs (7 women, 6 men). Participants were purposively sampled to ensure diversity. A semi-structured interview guide containing open-ended questions was developed by the research team based on the Theoretical Domains Framework. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and data were analysed both inductively and deductively using NVivo V14. Data saturation determined the sample size and was reached when no new themes emerged. <h3>Results</h3> Three main themes were identified: (1) the current role of the CP, (2) the need for more education on perioperative antithrombotic management, and (3) collaboration and communication with other healthcare professionals. CPs reported to contribute more to postoperative than to preoperative management. Facilitators included their close relationship with patients as trusted professionals, their early involvement post-hospital discharge, and their complete overview of patients‘ medication. Barriers included lack of access to medical records, absence of standardised guidelines, and difficulties to reach hospital physicians. CPs expressed a strong need for structured education and a comprehensive overview of guidelines, including well-accessible algorithms and effective communication with prescribers. Hospital pharmacists were identified as key players in addressing these barriers by facilitating information flow and supporting CPs. <h3>Conclusion and Relevance</h3> The role of CPs in perioperative antithrombotic management is currently limited, particularly in preoperative care. Several barriers and facilitators were identified that may influence their role in this area. The findings suggest the need for structured education and improved access to clinical information. Further research is necessary to validate these findings and address identified barriers, ultimately improving the role of CPs in perioperative care and patient outcomes. <h3>References and/or Acknowledgements</h3> <h3>Conflict of Interest</h3> No conflict of interest