AEMCA Practice Exam

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What does a PT/INR test measure?

Levels of vitamin D in the bloodstream
Prothrombin levels to assess anticoagulant therapy
Blood glucose levels for diabetes management
Cholesterol levels to evaluate cardiovascular health

The correct answer is: Prothrombin levels to assess anticoagulant therapy

The PT/INR test specifically measures the time it takes for blood to clot, which reflects how well the coagulation cascade is functioning. The prothrombin time (PT) measures the time taken for blood to clot after adding a triggering agent, while the International Normalized Ratio (INR) standardizes the PT results regardless of the testing methods used. This test is primarily used to assess the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, particularly for patients on medications such as warfarin, which is crucial in managing conditions predisposed to blood clotting, such as atrial fibrillation or deep vein thrombosis. By monitoring prothrombin levels through this test, healthcare providers can adjust anticoagulant doses to maintain blood clotting within a therapeutic range, balancing the risk of thrombosis against the risk of excessive bleeding.