Protrombin Time

 Measures the time required for a fibrin clot to form in a citrated plasma sample
after addition of calcium ions and tissue thromboplastin (Factor III)

Purpose

 To evaluate the intrinsic coagulation system (Factors 5,7, and 9) and prothrombin
and fibrinogen
 To monitor response to oral anticoagulant therapy.

Pre

 Explain to the patient that the PT test is used to determine if the blood clots
normally.
 Notify the laboratory and physician of medication the patient is taking that may
affect test results; they may need to be restricted.
 Tell the patient that a blood sample will be taken. Explain who will perform the
venipuncture and when.

Post

 Perform a venipuncture and collect the sample in 3 or 4.5ml siliconized tube.

 Ensure subdermal bleeding has stopped before removing.
 If hematoma develops at the venipuncture site, apply warm soaks.

Requested: April 23, 2012

Prothrombin Time Result Unit Coagulation Normal Values
Control 12.0 secs
Patient 11.5 secs
Activity 93.0 percent 70-130
INR 0.97 Equals/ less than 1.4
Partial Thromboplastin Time

 Used to evaluate all clotting factor of the intrinsic pathways except

platelets by measuring the time required for formation of fibrin clot after
addition of calcium and phospholipids emulsion to plasma sample.

Purpose

 To screen for deficiencies of clotting factors in the intrinsic pathways.

 To monitor response to heparin therapy.

Pre

 Explain to the patient that the PT test is used to determine if the blood clots
normally.
 Tell the patient that a blood sample will be taken. Explain who will perform the
venipuncture and when.
 Inform the patient that he need not restrict food and fluids.

Post

 Perform a venipuncture and collect the sample in 7 ml tube with sodium citrate
added.
 If hematoma develops at the venipuncture site, apply warm soaks.

 Ensure subdermal bleeding has stopped before removing.

Requested: April 23, 2012

Prothrombin Time Result Unit Coagulation Normal Values
Control 34.2 secs
Patient 36.1 secs 28.0- 44.0
Activity percent
INR