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How Are Blood Clotting Tests Performed?
Published: May 08, 2024
Blood clotting tests are essential medical procedures that provide crucial information about your body's ability to form blood clots. Understanding how these tests are performed can help ease any anxiety and ensure accurate results.
Step 1: Blood Collection
The process begins with a simple blood draw. A healthcare professional will clean an area on your arm and insert a small needle to collect a blood sample. The blood is drawn into special tubes containing an anticoagulant to prevent it from clotting immediately. It's crucial to fill the tube correctly to ensure accurate results.
Step 2: Sample Preparation
Once collected, the blood sample is sent to a laboratory. There, it's processed to separate the liquid part of the blood (plasma) from the cells. The plasma is what's used for most clotting tests. Timing is important here - the sample needs to be tested within a certain timeframe to ensure accuracy.
Step 3: Running the Tests
Different clotting tests involve adding specific substances to the plasma and measuring how long it takes to clot. For example, in a PT test, tissue factor is added to trigger clotting. In an aPTT test, different substances are used to activate different parts of the clotting process. Specialized machines measure the clotting time precisely.
Step 4: Interpreting the Results
Once the tests are complete, a laboratory professional or doctor interprets the results. They compare your clotting times to normal ranges and consider any medications you're taking or conditions you have. Sometimes, additional tests may be needed to get a complete picture of your clotting health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually just a few minutes.
You may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted.
Usually not, but always follow your doctor's instructions.
Ask your doctor, as some medications can affect results.
Often within hours, but it can vary depending on the specific tests.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable and ensure you get the most accurate results possible.
References
- Adcock DM, Kressin DC, Marlar RA. Minimum specimen volume requirements for routine coagulation testing: dependence on citrate concentration. Am J Clin Pathol 1998; 109:595.
- Zürcher M, Sulzer I, Barizzi G, et al. Stability of coagulation assays performed in plasma from citrated whole blood transported at ambient temperature. Thromb Haemost 2008; 99:416.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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