Why is this procedure done?
International normalized ratio is also known as INR. This is a calculation from another lab test, prothrombin time (PT). By using the INR, doctors can compare results, no matter what lab has done the test. ‚
Doctors use INR testing to measure the time it takes blood to clot. Most often this test is done to find out if your blood is thin enough (anticoagulated). ‚
It is important to keep a balance between low and high INR results. If the INR is too low, a person may be at risk for clots. A high INR means it takes a very long time for the blood to clot. Then, you are more likely to bleed. ‚
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, your blood is likely taking a normal amount of time to clot.
- If the results are low, your blood clots very quickly. You are at a higher risk for blood clots in your body.
- If the results are high, your blood is taking too much time to clot. You are at a higher risk for bleeding.
- If your results are not normal, it may be due to an illness or because of a drug you are taking. Your doctor may order additional tests to understand why your blood is too thick or too thin.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Tell your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Some drugs may alter the test results.
- If you have bleeding problems
- Your current diet, especially fruits and vegetables you eat
What happens during the procedure?
- It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood to see how fast it clots.
- Instead of using a needle, the staff may prick your finger or collect it in a small tube. In babies, the heel is pricked instead of the finger.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was put in to control bleeding and bruising.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
- If you are on blood thinning drugs your dose may change based on the INR results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your blood clotting. Together you can make a plan for more care. If you are taking blood thinning drugs, your doctor may change the dose based on this test result. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/pt/tab/test ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚