Key result
PT-INR self-testing using portable coagulometers is a suitable alternative to conventional laboratory testing when devices are properly calibrated and patients receive adequate training.
Why the study?
Does PT-INR self-testing using portable coagulometers provide a reliable alternative to conventional laboratory testing in patients on oral anticoagulants?
Does PT-INR self-testing using portable coagulometers provide a reliable alternative to conventional laboratory testing in patients on oral anticoagulants?
PT-INR self-testing is a suitable alternative to conventional laboratory testing if devices are properly calibrated and patients are adequately trained.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
May support self-testing feasibility with calibration and training; leaves open need for randomized trials before practice change.
Purpose of review The increasing numbers of patients on oral anticoagulants may challenge the traditional organization of patient monitoring. The availability of portable coagulometers capable of measuring prothrombin time (PT) international normalized ratio (INR) in a drop of capillary blood facilitates decentralization of monitoring by self-testing. This article reviews the literature on use of portable coagulometers. Recent findings Numerous studies have evaluated the reliability of portable coagulometers in testing the PT-INR. This has been assessed by statistically as well as clinically relevant criteria. Other studies have been devoted to developing calibration models fulfilling the criteria recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the calibration of INR measuring systems. Finally, studies have assessed the value of schemes for patient training and for the long-term quality assurance of portable coagulometers. Summary It can be concluded from the published studies that PT-INR self-testing may be considered as a suitable alternative to conventional laboratory testing. For the PT-INR to be reliable, manufacturers of portable coagulometers should calibrate their devices against international standards for thromboplastin with procedures similar to those recommended by WHO for conventional measuring systems. Training of patients and implementation of appropriate quality assessment schemes are also essential prerequisites for the success of PT-INR self-testing.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Armando Tripodi (2004) conducted a review in Patients on oral anticoagulants. PT-INR self-testing using portable coagulometers vs. Conventional laboratory testing was evaluated on Reliability of portable coagulometers in testing the PT-INR. PT-INR self-testing using portable coagulometers is a suitable alternative to conventional laboratory testing when devices are properly calibrated and patients receive adequate training.