For this test, patients must be on a stable dose of Coumadin for at least two weeks. If patient has not received Coumadin for the past 2 weeks, see Protein C, No Coumadin.
One 1.0 mL aliquot of platelet-poor citrated plasma (BTT). This tube must be drawn at least 90% full. Invert tube completely three or four times to mix. Do Not Shake. Centrifuge tube at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes with the brake OFF. Transfer top plasma to polypropylene tubes with plastic pipettes. Cap tightly.