A coagulation panel, also known as a coagulation profile or clotting panel, is a series of blood tests that assess the blood's ability to clot properly. This panel is essential for diagnosing and monitoring various bleeding disorders, clotting abnormalities, and conditions that may affect hemostasis, such as liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, or the use of anticoagulant medications. The coagulation panel typically includes tests such as Prothrombin Time (PT), Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), and International Normalized Ratio (INR), which evaluate different pathways of the coagulation cascade. PT measures the time it takes for blood to clot through the extrinsic pathway, while aPTT assesses the intrinsic pathway. The INR is a standardized measure derived from the PT, commonly used to monitor patients on anticoagulant therapy, particularly those taking warfarin. Abnormal results in these tests can indicate various conditions, such as hemophilia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), or the presence of inhibitors that affect clotting factors. The coagulation panel is often ordered preoperatively to assess bleeding risk or in response to unexplained bleeding or bruising. By providing critical information about the coagulation status of a patient, this panel aids healthcare providers in making informed decisions regarding treatment, management of bleeding disorders, and the safe administration of anticoagulant therapies. Overall, the coagulation panel is a vital tool in clinical practice, contributing to the effective management of patients with coagulation-related issues.