A Prothrombin Time (PT) test determines the time duration for clots to be formed in a blood sample. Time INR is a calculation done based on the results obtained from the PT test.  In case of injury or accidents, the clotting factors work together to form clots over the wound and prevent excessive blood loss.

Slow blood clotting in your body can lead to excessive blood loss during injuries. On the other hand, too-fast blood clotting potentially results in harmful blood clots that can block blood supply through your arteries and veins. The result of a PT/INR test determines the root cause of bleeding and clotting disorders. It also confirms whether the medications used to prevent blood clotting work correctly.

Prothrombin time is an important test to detect whether five different blood clotting factors including factors I, II, V, VII, and X are present and working well together.

Your doctor will recommend you to take the Prothrombin Time test,:

• If you have blood in your urine
• If you develop unexplained blood clots
• If your gums bleed easily
• If you have unexplained heavy menstrual bleeding
• If you have unexplained nosebleeds
• If you develop frequent swelling or pain in your joints.
• If you are planned for a surgery

You can also be advised this test to be done every month, if you are taking the blood-thinning medication or warfarin, so as to confirm that you’re not taking too much medication which can cause excessive bleeding.

The HbA1c test is a simple blood test with no need for fasting before the test. The blood sample can be taken by the phlebotomist at a pathology lab. However, you need to inform the phlebotomist if you are on any blood thinning medications.