Reduction of Risk Potential Q 3
A patient is admitted to the same-day surgery unit for a liver biopsy. Which of the following laboratory tests assesses coagulation? Select all that apply.
A. Partial thromboplastin time
B. Prothrombin time
C. Platelet count
D. Hemoglobin
Correct Answer: A, B, & C
Prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and platelet count are all included in coagulation studies.
Option A: The partial thromboplastin time (PTT; also known as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)) is a screening test that helps evaluate a person’s ability to appropriately form blood clots. It measures the number of seconds it takes for a clot to form in a sample of blood after substances (reagents) are added.
Option B: Prothrombin time (PT) is a blood test that measures how long it takes blood to clot. A prothrombin time test can be used to check for bleeding problems. PT is also used to check whether medicine to prevent blood clots is working.
Option C: Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are tiny fragments of cells that are essential for normal blood clotting. They are formed from very large cells called megakaryocytes in the bone marrow and are released into the blood to circulate. The platelet count is a test that determines the number of platelets in a sample of blood.
Option D: The hemoglobin level, though important information prior to an invasive procedure such as liver biopsy, does not assess coagulation.