ACT
Also known as: Activated Coagulation Time
Formal name: Activated Clotting Time
Related tests: Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT), Prothrombin Time (PT)
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To monitor heparin and other anticoagulation when undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass, coronary angioplasty, and dialysis
When to Get Tested?
When you are receiving high dose heparin to prevent clotting during surgical procedures such as a cardiopulmonary bypass; when heparin levels are too high to allow monitoring with a PTT test and/or when a rapid result is necessary to monitor treatment
Sample Required?
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm
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