• 66 Balcombe Road, Mentone, VIC, 3194
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Q: What does the INR blood test measure?
A: The INR blood test measures how long it takes for your blood to clot.

Q: When is the INR blood test used? A: It is used for individuals taking warfarin, a medication for treating and preventing blood clots.

Q: How does the doctor use the INR result? A: The doctor uses the INR result to determine the appropriate dose of warfarin for the patient.

Q: What is the purpose of the prothrombin time (PT) test in relation to the INR blood test? A: The PT test measures how quickly blood clots, and the results are expressed as INR to standardize them, especially crucial when monitoring warfarin treatment.

Q: Why do people need an INR blood test when taking warfarin? A: People taking warfarin may need the INR test to:

  • Prevent stroke in conditions like atrial fibrillation.
  • Treat or prevent blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
  • Guard against blood clots when having an artificial heart valve.

Q: How should one prepare for the INR blood test? A: No special preparation is needed for this test.

Q: What information can be gained from understanding INR test results? A: Results above the target range indicate slow clotting, posing a risk of bleeding. Below the target range increases the risk of blood clots.

Q: What actions might be taken if INR is too high or too low? A:

  • High INR: Increased risk of bleeding. The doctor may adjust warfarin dose or provide temporary reversal medications.
  • Low INR: Increased risk of blood clots. The doctor will need to adjust the dose to reach the target INR range.

Q: Is INR testing required for all types of anticoagulant medicines? A: No, some newer anticoagulant medicines do not need frequent monitoring with INR blood tests. It’s essential to discuss this with your doctor.

Q: Where can one find resources and support related to INR tests? A:

  • Learn more about INR tests and Prothrombin time at Pathology Tests Explained.
  • Contact the HealthDirect helpline at 1800 022 222 (NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for 24/7 assistance.

Q: Is there additional information available about blood testing in general? A: Yes, explore our Guide to blood testing for comprehensive information on what happens during a blood test, the accuracy of results, and the cost of blood tests.

Q: Is there an additional cost associated with the INR test? A: Individual providers charge differently. At the moment, 4cyte pathology in Mentone does not charge any fees for INR test.

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