Final answer:
An increased PT refers to a lengthened time for clotting to occur, with clotting ability being below normal.
Step-by-step explanation:
A prolonged prothrombin time (PT) indicates a delay in the blood clotting process, suggesting that clot formation takes longer than usual. The PT measures the activity of various clotting factors in the blood, particularly factors I, II, V, VII, and X. When these factors are deficient or impaired, the time it takes for blood to clot increases. The correct option is "Lengthened; below," as this accurately describes the scenario of increased PT.
The PT is often expressed as a ratio, comparing the patient's clotting time to that of a standard control. For example, a PT ratio of 1.5 means the patient's blood takes 1.5 times as long to clot as the control sample. A lengthened PT implies a ratio greater than 1, indicating reduced clotting efficiency.
In clinical practice, a prolonged PT is commonly associated with conditions such as liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, or the use of anticoagulant medications. Understanding PT results is crucial for assessing the risk of bleeding and guiding appropriate medical interventions.
In summary, the correct answer is "Lengthened; below," reflecting an extended prothrombin time and reduced clotting ability below the normal range. This interpretation aids healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing coagulation disorders.