Question

Which of these test results are used to monitor oral anticoagulant use and to assist with the decision making when considering medication level changes?

Select one:

a. INR

b. FDP

c. Plt Ct

d. PT

e. aPTT

Answer 1

The correct answer is (A)INR

INR(Internationalized normalized ratio) is used to monitor the usage of oral anticoagulants and changes regarding medication levels. Its calculation is based on the test results from PT or prothrombin time.

Prothrombin time results vary from one lab to another (because of the type of reagents used- different reagents can be used in different labs). Hence, WHO recommends the use of INR for the people undergoing oral anticoagulant therapy. This helps in adjusting the difference in lab values for PT and helps in comparison from different labs.

Prothrombin time is basically a test that helps in assessing the time required by the blood to form a clot

All other options are incorrect.

• FDP or fibrin and fibrinogen degradation product test is helpful in the diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation.
• Plt refers to platelet count and measures the average number of platelets in the blood. Ct refers to clotting time test.
• aPTT refers to activated partial thromboplastin time tests an indviduals ability to form clots.