Management of patients with elevated Self-BAT scores or other bleeding symptoms: Updated overview for primary care practitioners.

objectiveTo provide recommendations for management of patients presenting with elevated self-administered bleeding assessment tool (Self-BAT) scores or other bleeding symptoms in a primary care setting. SOURCES OF INFORMATION: Primary research sources, clinical review articles, and interviews with research staff, hematologists, and family physicians were used to create the poster tools and reference guide resources. MAIN MESSAGE: Recommendations to manage a patient with an elevated Self-BAT score or other bleeding symptoms include reviewing the results of the Self-BAT to clarify relevant symptoms, performing initial diagnostic laboratory tests, and doing basic symptom management. Clinical judgment should be used when determining whether referral to a hematologist is necessary, but referral should be considered if the bleeding score is abnormal or if initial management options are ineffective. Some bleeding symptoms warrant evaluation by a gastroenterologist, obstetrician-gynecologist, or otolaryngologist.

conclusionPrimary care providers should conduct a thorough review of the Self-BAT results and associated management recommendations when working with a patient presenting with an elevated score or other bleeding manifestations. A review consists of the clarification of relevant symptoms, appropriate initial laboratory workups, and patient education. Treatment options for symptom management should be explored while recognizing the threshold for referral to a hematologist.