Prothrombin Time, Protime-INR (PT)
$65.99
What is it?
Prothrombin Time (PT) with International Normalized Ratio (INR) is a blood test that measures how long it takes your blood to clot. It’s used to monitor blood thinning medications like warfarin, which are prescribed to prevent blood clots.
Who is it for?
People who are taking blood thinners, such as warfarin, will typically need regular PT/INR tests to ensure their medication dosage is correct and preventing blood clots without causing excessive bleeding.
Outcome:
The results of a PT/INR test are expressed in two ways:
- PT: This measures the time it takes for your blood to clot in seconds.
- INR: This is a standardized way to compare PT results from different laboratories. A normal INR range is typically between 2.0 and 3.0 for people on blood thinners.
Preparation:
Before your PT/INR test, you should:
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can affect the results of the test.
- Inform your doctor about any medications: Let your doctor know about any medications you’re taking, as some can interfere with the test.
- Fasting: Some doctors may recommend fasting before the test, but this is usually not necessary.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for preparing for your PT/INR test.
