INRmåling

INRmåling refers to the measurement of the International Normalized Ratio (INR). The INR is a standardized measurement used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, particularly with warfarin. Warfarin is a medication that thins the blood to prevent dangerous clots from forming in patients with conditions such as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism.

The INR test measures how long it takes for a patient's blood to clot. By normalizing this measurement against a standard, the INR provides a comparable result regardless of the laboratory performing the test. A typical target INR range for most patients on warfarin therapy is between 2.0 and 3.0, though this can vary depending on the individual's medical condition. A higher INR indicates that the blood is clotting more slowly, increasing the risk of bleeding. Conversely, a lower INR suggests the blood is clotting too quickly, meaning the anticoagulant therapy may not be sufficiently effective and the risk of clot formation is higher. Regular INR monitoring allows healthcare providers to adjust the warfarin dosage to maintain the patient within their therapeutic range, balancing the benefits of anticoagulation with the risks of bleeding. The test is usually performed using a small blood sample, often obtained by a finger prick.