Prothrombin Time/ International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR) testing is not complicated. Need to know how to get started with the Coag-Sense® System? Follow this simple guide:
- Watch the Coag-Sense® PT/INR Monitoring System training video here.
- Read both the Quick Reference Guide and Testing Tips included with the device. You may refer to the User Manual for more details.
- Review the Test Strip Kit package insert for additional instructions.
Get Started with the Coag-Sense® System
If you are a professional (PRO) user, your box of test strips includes Control Strips. You should run one Hi and one Lo Control Strip with each new box/ new lot of test strips. Note that Controls are not required for calibration.
Gather all test supplies needed such as alcohol wipes. Test strips, lancets, and sample transfer tubes. Have the patient wash their hands with warm soapy water to increase circulation. Wipe the patient’s finger with alcohol and dry completely. Residual alcohol may affect results.
Set up the Meter
Press and hold the Power button on the right side of the meter to turn it on. Enter or scan your login credentials (if required by your institution). Press Test.
Confirm that the Patient Test Strip Lot# is correct by matching the number with the one on the pouch. If the field is blank or contains incorrect information, press Change, align and touch the NFC Tag to the target ring on the left side of the meter’s surface. If the NFC Tag is not available, you may manually enter both the Lot# and Barcode# from the test strip pouch. Press Continue.
While holding the round end of the test strip, gently push it completely into the meter. The meter will warm the test strip to operating temperature and will display a countdown of 25 seconds. When finished, the meter will beep once, and display Apply Sample. You will have 2 ½ minutes to apply the blood sample to the test strip.
Test a Blood Sample
You may collect the patient’s blood sample while the test strip is warming. Remove the cap from the 21-guage lancet, place it against the patient’s finger and press firmly. Please note that diabetes lancets will not collect the required amount of blood and should not be used.
The finger should bleed freely and generate a dome shaped bead of blood. Hold the transfer tube horizontally and collect the bead of blood filling the tube until it reaches the green line.
Touch the tip of the transfer tube to the loading well in front of the wheel on the test strip. Depress the black plunger to dispense the blood sample completely. Blood should be applied to the test strip within 15 seconds of its collection. The meter will sense that you have added the ample and display the message: Testing, Please Wait.
When testing is complete, the meter will beep once, and the results will appear on the screen in INR units and PT seconds. Record the results. Remove the used test strip and dispose of it and all other supplies in a hazardous waste container. Turn off the meter by pressing and holding the Power button.
Access more information about the Coag-Sense® PT/INR Monitoring System here.
