Factor I (Activated Clotting Time) – Plasma

What Is ACT Used For?

ACT is primarily used in medical settings to monitor blood clotting during procedures like cardiopulmonary bypass, dialysis, or when evaluating patients with suspected bleeding or clotting disorders. It provides a quick baseline measurement of clotting efficiency in plasma.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small sample of your blood is drawn into a specialized tube containing a clotting activator. The blood is then placed in a device that measures the time it takes for a clot to form. This process is typically done in a clinical lab under sterile conditions.

Sample Requirements and Preparation

For this test, you’ll need a blood sample collected in a special tube. No special preparation is required, but fasting may be advised in some cases depending on the clinical context (e.g., monitoring anticoagulant therapy).

What Does an Abnormal ACT Indicate?

An ACT that is too long may suggest impaired clotting (e.g., due to bleeding disorders, low levels of clotting factors, or medications like anticoagulants). An ACT that is too short may indicate hypercoagulability or laboratory contamination. Results are interpreted in relation to clinical symptoms and other lab tests.