How do you screen a patient for potential
bleeding problems?
The best screening procedure for a bleeding disorder is a good medical
history. If the review of the medical history indicates a bleeding problem, a more
detailed history is needed. The following questions are basic:
Is there a family history of bleeding problems?
- Has bleeding been noted since early childhood, or is the onset relatively recent?
- How many previous episodes have there been?
- What are the circumstances of the bleeding?
- When did the bleeding occur? After minor surgery, such as tonsillectomy or tooth extraction? After falls or participation in contact sports?
- What medications was the patient taking when the bleeding occurred?
- What was the duration of the bleeding episode(s)? Did the episode involve prolonged oozing or a massive hemorrhage?
- Was the bleeding immediate or delayed?
After all the following questions are answered by the patient we can have a brief idea on the type of disorder it can be and can conclude our doubt by conducting some tests required.
