A coagulation screen will help to identify primary coagulopathy due to thrombocytopaenia, and secondary coagulopathy caused by Vitamin K antagonism, inherited coagulopathies, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and other causes such as severe hepatic disease where there is decreased clotting factor production.
Includes prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastic time (APTT), platelet count and routine FBE
Species:
All species
Specimen:
Whole blood
Container:
Sodium Citrate and EDTA
Collection protocol:
Collect blood with a minimum of trauma so coagulation cascade is not triggered, preferably from the jugular so a good flow is ensured. Fill the tube exactly to the level indicated on the blood tube.
Special handling/shipping requirements:
Samples should reach the laboratory within 18 hours of collection. They should be kept at or below room temperature.