What does INR stand for?

The term INR stands for International Normalized Ratio. This measurement is crucial in the field of medicine, particularly in monitoring the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin. The INR is a standardized way of expressing the prothrombin time (PT), which is the time it takes for blood to clot. The purpose of the INR is to provide a consistent measure that can be universally understood, regardless of variations in laboratory testing methods or reagents used across different facilities. By using this standardized ratio, healthcare providers can reliably assess a patient's blood clotting ability and make informed decisions regarding anticoagulant dosing and management. Understanding this concept is essential for ensuring patient safety and effective treatment in various clinical settings.