Description

Preface

his book provides the user with an up-to-date, extensive manual that allows rapid access to clinically
relevant laboratory and diagnostic tests. A unique feature of this manual is its consistent format, which
provides a comprehensive approach to laboratory and diagnostic tests. Tests are categorized according to
either the method of testing (eg, x-ray, ultrasound, nuclear scan) or the type of specimen (eg, blood, urine,
stool) used for testing. Every chapter of this book is based on this categorization. Each chapter begins with

an alphabetical listing of all tests in the chapter to aid the user in locating discussions quickly. An over-
view follows the list and contains general information concerning test methods and related patient care.

Chapter 1 includes a discussion of guidelines for proper test preparation and performance. New

coding requirements for ordering tests have been added along with a description of common labo-
ratory methods. Standard Precautions and other clinically important information for the health care

provider are included to ensure accurate diagnostic and laboratory testing. his information is essential
for health care economics so that tests are performed in a timely fashion and do not need to be repeated
because of problems in patient preparation, test procedure, or specimen handling. Communication and
collaboration with other health care providers are emphasized. he privacy rules resulting from the

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) are explained in relationship to diagnos-
tic and laboratory test results.

Chapter 1 also includes a description of commonly performed laboratory methods. his section
explains methods used to evaluate blood, urine, spinal luid, and other specimens. Methods such as

latex agglutination, agglutination inhibition, hemagglutination, electrophoresis, immunoassay, poly-
merase chain reaction, and FISH techniques are examples.

hroughout the book, information is explained in a comprehensive manner to enhance full under-
standing of each particular test. Every feature of test discussion is geared to provide complete infor-
mation in a sequence that best simulates priorities in clinical practice. he following information is

provided, whenever possible, for a thorough understanding of each diagnostic test:
• Name of test. Tests are listed by their complete name. A complete list of abbreviations and alternative
test names follows each main entry.
• Normal indings. Normal values are listed, when applicable, for the infant, child, adult, and elderly
person. Also, where appropriate, values are separated into categories of male and female. We realize
that normal ranges for laboratory tests vary signiicantly depending on the method of testing and
the particular laboratory. For this reason, we strongly encourage the user to check the normal values
at the institution where the test is performed. his should be relatively easy because most laboratory
reports indicate normal values.
• Critical values. hese values give an indication of results that are well outside the usual range for
normal. hese results generally require immediate intervention.
• Indications. his section describes the main uses for each test. Emphasis is placed on the type of
patient signs and symptoms that lead to the indications for each test.
• Test explanation. his section provides a comprehensive description of each test. he explanation
includes fundamental information about basic pathophysiology related to the test methods, what
diseases the test results may indicate, and the location where the test is generally performed. Also, in
this section, patient sensation, test duration, and the type of health care professional