Bleeding Time

This test measures how long it takes a person to stop bleeding after the skin is cut.

Who is a candidate for the test?

This test is ordered if a healthcare provider suspects problems with blood clotting factors or blood vessels.

How is the test performed?

The test is done by making several small cuts and timing how long it takes for the cuts to stop bleeding.

Usually a blood pressure cuff is placed on the upper arm and inflated. Then two small cuts are made on the lower arm. Each cut is usually about one centimeter long, or less than 1/2 inch, and one millimeter deep. After the shallow cuts are made, the blood pressure cuff is removed. The cuts are blotted every 30 seconds until the bleeding stops and the bleeding time is recorded.