Self testing for INR levels.

[Nettyanne]

Hi all, I went to my local hospital this morning for a training session on self testing my INR levels. There were six of us at the session and it went well, I think the hardest part was opening the packs of batteries, it is just me or are things packed tighter these days?

I know a couple of people have posted that they self test and I wondered what happens at the pharmacy when you collect your prescription, as my pharmacist looks at my yellow book and this will no longer show the latest dose. I did ask this question this morning and the nurse said it should not be a problem, but it would be good to hear from other people.

Thanks

Annette

[DavidSimpson]

Hi Annette, Self testing is really no problem, I’ve done it since I left hospital, I had to buy my own machine, but the test strips and blood samplers are free on prescription. Once your dosage has levelled out, you’ll be able to vary it a little as required according to your readings.

[Nettyanne in reply to DavidSimpson]

Hi David, thanks for your reply. My local Health authority are running a scheme where you are given a testing machine and they also supply the strips and lancets, so for once the postcode lottery has worked in my favour.

Best wishes

Annette

[Fredders]

Hi Annette

I self test and I fill in the little yellow book myself so that I have a record of my dose etc. My pharmacist has never asked to see my book, but then he knows me well as I have been getting my prescriptions there for years.

I have to buy my own test strips as my surgery doesn’t support prescribing them. It’s another case of a postcode lottery.

Take care.

Wendy

[Nettyanne in reply to Fredders]

Hi Wendy, thanks for your reply. I think I will do the same and use the yellow book for my own record.

Isn't it strange how Health authorities have different rules on prescribing. You have to buy your strips, David gets them on prescription and I have been supplied with everything.

Best wishes

Annnette

[Fredders in reply to Nettyanne]

It’s not the Health Authority, it’s the actual GP surgeries that decide what they will and won’t prescribe based on their budget. I could go to another practice in Lincoln and would be able to get the testing strips on prescription. I have had to pay for everything, but at least we could afford to buy it all, not everyone can.

Hope you get on okay with it, I’ve done a couple of tests and it’s been fine. Was a bit worried about the finger pricking but can’t even feel it.

Just survived my first four days back at work and feel fine 🙂

Best wishes.

Wendy

[Nettyanne in reply to Fredders]

Hi Wendy it still doesn't seem right that some people are paying for things and others get them free. I had looked into buying my own machine but the warfarin clinic nurse said to wait a couple of weeks and one would be available. Makes a change to get something for nothing ☺

Glad to hear you are back at work and feel fine, don't overdo it.

Best wishes

Annette