What should be the next course of action in investigating these results?
A) Repeat the aggregation studies
B) Start the patient on Coumadin
C) Order factor assays of the intrinsic pathway
D) Order factor assays of the intrinsic, extrinsic, and common pathways

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The abnormal PTT results suggest a defect in the intrinsic pathway, so factor assays of the intrinsic pathway should be ordered to identify the specific factor(s) that are deficient or dysfunctional. Repeat aggregation studies or starting the patient on Coumadin are not appropriate next steps in investigating these results. Ordering factor assays of the extrinsic and common pathways may be considered later depending on the results of the intrinsic pathway assays.

What Should Be the Next Course of Action in Investigating