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INR and Stroke Prevention HF#6030

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INR and Stroke Prevention

                                                             

INR stands for International Normalized Ratio.  This value is a measure of how long it takes your blood to clot.  While taking warfarin, your blood will be checked often to see if your INR is within your “target” range.

 

INR values:

 

1                      =    Normal bleeding time, not on warfarin (Coumadin®).

 

2.0-3.0             =    Target range for many medical conditions.  This is a safe range with little or no bleeding risks for most patients.

 

2.5-3.5             =    Higher target range used for some medical conditions, such as mechanical heart valves.

 

4.0 and above  =    Increased risk of bleeding.  Discuss this result with your doctor.

 

Your target INR range is between ___________ and ___________.

 

The reason you are on warfarin (Coumadin®)is to ______________________________________

 

Your next blood draw will be:

                                       When: ______________

                                       Where: _______________________________

 

Call Doctor _______________________for results after you have had your blood drawn. 

 

Ask these questions each time you get your results:

  • What was my result? (Keep a log of your INR results)
  • Do I change my warfarin (Coumadin®) dose?
  • When should I have my blood drawn next?

If you go home on Lovenox/Deltaparin or another form of injectable heparin, keep taking it until your INR is above ___________.  Confirm this with your Primary Doctor’s office listed above.



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 08/26/2011

Copyright © 08/26/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6030

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