Bleeding time measures platelet function and the condition of small vessels by timing how long it takes for bleeding to stop after a standardized incision. It is the best single test for screening platelet disorders and is useful for detecting coagulation disorders and vascular abnormalities. The Ivy Bleeding Time test involves making an incision on the forearm and inflating a blood pressure cuff to measure the time until bleeding stops, with a normal reference range of 2-9 minutes.

1. Lesson 3-3 Bleeding Time

2. Use of Bleeding Time Test Evaluate Platelet function Small vessel condition Bleeding time measures the primary phase of hemostasis: - the interaction of the platelet with the blood vessel wall and the formation of a hemostatic plug. - Bleeding time is the best single screening test for platelet function disorders and is one of the primary screening tests for coagulation disorders.

3. Principle of Bleeding Time Test Make standardized superficial incision Measure time required for bleeding to cease

4. Methods of Measuring Bleeding Time Ivy Bleeding Time Forearm incision Duke Bleeding Time Earlobe incision

5. Ivy Bleeding Time Ivy Bleeding Time Forearm incision Blood pressure cuff, 40 mm Reference range, 2-9 min

6. Ivy Bleeding Time

7. This test is of value in detecting vascular abnormalities and platelet abnormalities or deficiencies The duration of bleeding from a punctured capillary depends on the quantity and quality of platelets and the ability of the blood vessel wall to constrict.