The use of an International Normalized Ratio (INR) blood test meter allows the measurement of the length of time that it takes for your blood to clot. This is usually a test that is prescribed to those who are currently taking some form of blood thinning medication as an anticoagulant. This means that many patients who have suffered from heart failure and are on medication to prevent clots will need to utilize this meter regularly.
While the meter can be used in a medical clinic or hospital during visits to the doctor, many patients are now using these meters at home to save time and money on trips to the clinic. However, it is important before taking on the responsibility of using these machines at home to do a bit of research and preparation for your safety and financial well being.
Know If You Are A Good Candidate:
Home care of this kind is not for everybody, and you may not be a good candidate for the test if you can't afford the INR blood test meter at home, are fully capable of making it to a clinic for regular checkups, and find that giving blood by vein is easier for you. With this being said, if you are unable to comfortably visit a medical facility for testing, you always take care to follow doctors' orders at home, you take warfarin or another blood thinning medication, and you have trouble giving blood from a vein, then you would make a good candidate for using this blood test meter.
Check With Your Insurance Provider:
Before determining whether or not the INR blood test meter would be a good fit for your home, you should speak to a representative from your insurance agency. Your doctor may also have some information on the cost of the meter in regards to your insurance if they have your medical insurance information on file.
Receive Proper Training:
Any medical equipment use requires specific training, and the INR blood test meter is no different. In order to properly use the device, you must be trained by a knowledgeable medical practitioner. The meter may come with instructions, but many doctors will encourage patients to learn through hands-on training before using the meter on your own.
During training, a medical professional can walk you through what each reading means, what is the healthy range of readings, and when you should contact your doctor for new medication or a change to your current prescription.
It is very important that the INR blood test meter be used correctly as it can affect the overall outcome of your medical treatment. If the results are misread or patients are unable to operate the equipment effectively, serious consequences could ensue. The blood thinning medication taken by patients who use these meters can make a big difference to overall health, and can even cause severe illness or death if not handled properly. Speak to your doctor first if you are considering using this kind of device in your home.