A bleeding time test is a standardized medical procedure for determining platelet function. The physician uses a scalpel to make a precise incision 10mm long and 1mm deep. The cut is made on the underside of the forearm, away from any hair or visible veins. A blood pressure cuff is used to maintain a constant and standard blood pressure of 40mmHg through the patient's veins during the test. Blood is blotted every 30 seconds until the cut takes on a glossy appearance showing the formation of a platelet plug, and is completed when bleeding has completely stopped. A result of less than 9 minutes and 30 seconds is normal, but the actual time usually ranges widely from 2 to 9 minutes.