What is the normal range for Prothrombin Time (PT)?

Prothrombin Time (PT) is a blood test that measures the time it takes for blood to clot, providing important information about the extrinsic and common pathway of coagulation. The normal range for PT typically falls between 11 to 14 seconds in healthy individuals. This range can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and their specific methodologies.

The significance of the normal PT range is that it helps clinicians assess a patient's coagulation status, guiding treatment decisions especially in settings such as surgery, managing bleeding disorders, or monitoring patients on anticoagulation therapy like warfarin. Understanding the typical PT range is crucial, as deviations can indicate potential issues with clotting factors or liver function.

Thus, the selection of 11 to 14 seconds as the normal range reflects current clinical standards and established guidelines used in practice.