Kenya Medical Laboratory Tests

Bleeding time Test in Kenya

Brief Description

Bleeding time is a basic hemostasis test that reveals how effectively platelets engage small blood vessel walls to form blood clots. It is a screening test done to assess platelet function.

Synonyms

None

Patient Preparation

Patients will be questioned about any medication they are taking"," prior to the test. Results of the bleeding time test may be altered by several medicines such as aspirin and anticoagulants.

Sample Type

Whole blood

Sample volume

N/A

Sample collection Container

N/A

Sample collection instructions

The upper arm is covered with a blood pressure cuff that has been inflated to 40 mM Hg. On the underside of the forearm"," a stab wound is made with a scalpel or lancet. Superficial veins are usually avoided as they may bleed more slowly"," especially in individuals with bleeding disorders. Assessment of bleeding time starts when the stabbing occurs and ends when the bleeding has stopped completely. The blood is drawn off using filter paper or a paper towel every 30 seconds. Once the bleeding has ceased"," the test is complete.

Sample storage

N/A

Reference range

Adults: 2-9 minutes"," Children: 2-13 minutes

Results Turnaround

Within 24Hrs

Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators

A longer-than-normal bleeding time could indicate deficiencies in hemostasis"," severe thrombocytopenia"," platelet dysfunction"," vascular issues"," Von Willebrand's disease"," among other clotting abnormalities.