Mechanical Heart Valve & Coumadin

I have a friend who had open heart surgery and a mechanical valve put in. She is now taking Coumadin for the rest of her life. The only thing is somehow she managed to overdose on the Coumadin without knowing it because she only goes to lab once a month. I stumbled across a website regarding the self testing machines. I think the self testing machine will benefit her greatly. So what I am looking for is how do I know which tester will best benefit her? Anyone have any suggestions?  Thanks in advance for any and all assistance! :)

[DavesMom]

Hi,

Go to www.valvereplacement.com.  There's a whole forum there dedicated to coumadin self-testing.

Isn't your friend able to get tested more than once a month if there's a problem?  My doctor will have me in there more frequently if my INR is out of whack.

Good luck to your friend. Hope this helps.

Cheers!