LABORATORY BLOOD TESTING

Anticoagulation Services

Coumadin (generic name – Warfarin), is an anticoagulant medication. This means that it helps prevent clots from forming in the blood. Blood thinners are used to treat some types of heart disease.  It is often prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm), pulmonary embolism, and after artificial heart valve surgery or orthopedic procedures.  Blood clots can move to other parts of
your body and cause serious medical problems, such as a heart attack.  Coumadin will not dissolve a blood clot; however, over time, the blood clot may dissolve on its own.  Coumadin may also prevent other clots from forming or prevent clots from becoming larger.

In order for your health care provider to determine the correct dose of Coumadin, it will be necessary for you to have your blood tested.  The nurse will perform a finger-stick in the office, usually once a week to once a month, as directed by your doctor.  The test results (known as INR) will help the nurse determine how fast your blood is clotting and whether your medication dose needs to be changed.  Illness, diet, medication changes and physical activities may affect your INR and should be reported to your Beverly Hills Heart Doctor.