Roche CoaguChek XS System - CoaguChek XS System Explained

CoaguChek XS System User Manual for Self-Testing, version 10.0 USA
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The CoaguChek XS System
The CoaguChek XS System measures blood-clotting
time (Prothrombin Time) for people who are taking
anticoagulation medications such as Coumadin
®
or
warfarin. The CoaguChek XS System measures
blood-clotting time using blood from the fingertip.
Anticoagulation Medication
Anticoagulation medications, also known as blood
thinners, are prescribed to avoid unwanted clots.
Your blood-clotting time must be monitored to
ensure that your medication dosage is correct.
Blood-clotting Time
The rate at which blood clots is measured in units
called INR. It is very important that you stay within
your target INR range. If your INR is too low, the risk
of blood clots increases. If your INR is too high, the
risk for internal bleeding increases.
Everyone’s INR is different. Your doctor determines
the best INR range for you, depending on why you
are taking anticoagulants and how you react to
them. Your doctor also determines how often your
blood should be tested. Your doctor needs to know
your blood-clotting time in order to successfully treat
you.