Blood Coagulation Tests – Overview
Disorders of blood coagulation are now reliably checked not only in the laboratory but also – depending on the indication – at the point of care or as a self-test. Central to this is the determination of the prothrombin time (PT) and its standardized indication as an INR value (International Normalized Ratio). In the following overview, you will find devices, test strips, and accessories from the coagulation category – explained factually with application areas, benefits, and practical tips.
Device for Self-Monitoring
CoaguChek INRange – Blood Coagulation Meter
The INRange has been developed for patients who regularly monitor their coagulation themselves (e.g., under vitamin K antagonists). It offers a color-coded result display (e.g., Green = in target range), stores up to 400 measurement values with date/time/comment, and transmits data via USB or Bluetooth to the PC. The set includes, among other things, a Softclix lancing device, 20 lancets, 6 test strips, and a system bag – ideal for a quick start at home.
PT/INR-Test Strips
CoaguChek XS PT Test – Test Strips
These PT-test strips are suitable for CoaguChek XS, XS Plus, and XS Pro. The measurement is performed with fresh capillary blood (finger prick) or venous whole blood; the result is available after about one minute. Each package contains a code chip that must be inserted into the device before measurement. Available in packs of 24 or 48 – practical for practices, care, or structured home use.
CoaguChek XS PT Test PST – Test Strips for Self-Testing
PST-test strips (Patient Self Testing) are designed for self-application and are compatible with CoaguChek INRange and XS. They are operated with fresh capillary blood and are reportedly insensitive to pathological hematocrit/fibrinogen levels. The package also contains a code chip; available as a pack of 24 or 48.
Lancing Device & Lancets
CoaguChek Softclix Lancets
Sterile lancets (50 pcs./pack) for CoaguChek Softclix & XS Softclix lancing devices. Designed with a diameter of 0.8 mm for a minimally painful capillary blood collection – important for good test compliance in daily life.
Professional System for Practice & Clinic
CoaguChek Pro II – Coagulation Meter (Doctor's Set)
The Pro-II system is intended for professional use and meets the requirements of RiliBÄK. It measures PT (≈ 1 min) and aPTT (in < 5 min) with only 8 µl of blood, works with heparin-insensitive test strips, and is reportedly unaffected by elevated fibrinogen/low hematocrit. With integrated Wi-Fi, 2D barcode scanner, and large TFT touchscreen, results (storage for up to 2,000 measurements) can be digitally documented and directly transmitted to IT systems.
Application & Practical Tips
- Correct Sample Material: Fresh capillary blood (finger prick) is used for PT/INR tests. Pay attention to the specifications regarding sample volume and handling in the package insert.
- Insert Code Chip: A code chip is included with CoaguChek-test strips, which must be inserted before inserting the test strip into the device.
- Establish Measurement Routine: Measure at the same time of day as much as possible, document values, and contact the treating physician in case of deviations.
- Professional vs. Home Use: INRange + PST strips are aimed at self-monitoring, Pro II at practices, wards & emergency admissions. The XS-PT strips serve XS/XS Plus/XS Pro devices.
- Safety: Use medical products only according to instructions. Always consult a doctor for therapy decisions (e.g., dosage adjustment of anticoagulants).
Conclusion
For INR monitoring, appropriately tailored solutions are available: The CoaguChek INRange for structured self-monitoring, suitable PT-test strips (XS & PST) for different devices/application cases, Softclix lancets as convenient accessories, and the Pro II as a powerful professional system with modern connectivity. This allows coagulation management – from home monitoring to practice – to be represented safely and efficiently.
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