A portable device used for point-of-care testing analyzes blood samples to determine prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR). This provides immediate results, often within minutes, enabling rapid assessment of blood coagulation status. For example, a patient taking anticoagulant medication can have their dosage adjusted quickly and safely based on real-time data.
Rapid access to coagulation information is crucial for managing conditions requiring precise anticoagulation control. These devices offer significant advantages over traditional laboratory testing by reducing turnaround time for results, improving patient convenience, and facilitating timely interventions. Historically, monitoring coagulation required sending samples to a central laboratory, causing delays that could impact patient outcomes. The development of portable analyzers has revolutionized this process, enabling proactive and personalized anticoagulation management.