1.

General Purpose of a Laboratory Test:

Laboratory tests play a vital role in healthcare by serving various purposes. They are crucial for:

 Diagnosis: Identifying the specific cause of symptoms or confirming the presence of a

disease.
 Monitoring: Assessing the progress of a disease or the effectiveness of a treatment regimen.
 Screening: Detecting the early signs of a condition in asymptomatic individuals.
 Prognosis: Predicting the likely course and outcome of a disease.

2. Emergency Eyewash Station:

An emergency eyewash station is a critical safety feature in a laboratory. To operate it effectively:

 Locate the eyewash station in the laboratory.

 Pull down the eyewash handle or push the button to activate the flow of water.
 Hold the eyes open and flush them with water for at least 15 minutes.
 Seek medical attention promptly after rinsing to ensure no lasting damage.

3. Laboratory Test Categories:

Laboratory tests can be categorized into eight main types based on their functions:

 Chemistry: Analyzing chemical components in blood or urine.

 Hematology: Studying blood cells and clotting factors.
 Microbiology: Identifying microorganisms.
 Immunology: Assessing the immune system.
 Serology: Studying serum and antibodies.
 Coagulation: Assessing blood clotting mechanisms.
 Urinalysis: Analyzing urine composition.
 Pathology: Examining tissues, cells, and organs for abnormalities.

4. Physician's Office Laboratory (POL):

The physician's office laboratory comprises essential equipment for immediate diagnostic needs.
Components may include:

 Microscope: Used for examining blood smears and other specimens.

 Centrifuge: Separates components of blood or other fluids for analysis.
 Refrigerator: Stores reagents and certain specimens.
 Incubator: Provides a controlled environment for the growth of cultures.
 Chemistry Analyzer: Automates the analysis of chemical components in blood.

5. Laboratory Directory:

A laboratory directory provides comprehensive information on available tests, including:

 Test names and codes.

 Specimen requirements.
 Reference ranges for normal values.
 Any special instructions for the patient.

6. Laboratory Request Form:

This form serves as a communication tool between healthcare providers and the laboratory. It
includes:

 Patient information (name, date of birth, etc.).

 Tests ordered by the physician.
 Date and time of specimen collection.
 Physician details for reporting results.

7. Laboratory Profiles:

Different profiles cater to specific medical needs:

 Comprehensive Metabolic Profile (CMP): Evaluates kidney and liver function, electrolyte
levels, and blood glucose.
 Electrolyte Profile: Measures sodium, potassium, and chloride levels.
 Hepatic Function Profile: Assesses liver function.
 Hepatitis Profile: Detects viral hepatitis.
 Lipid Profile: Assesses cholesterol levels.
 Prenatal Profile: Screens for genetic disorders during pregnancy.
 Renal Function Profile: Evaluates kidney function.
 Rheumatoid Profile: Assesses autoimmune disorders.
 Thyroid Function Profile: Measures thyroid hormone levels.

8. Laboratory Report Form:

The laboratory report contains vital information:

 Patient details (name, age, sex).

 Test results and reference ranges.
 Interpretation or comments from the laboratory.
 Date and time of report generation.

9. Computerized Transmission of Documents:

Utilizing computers for sending and receiving laboratory documents offers advantages such as rapid
transmission, reduced errors, and improved record-keeping.

10. Patient Preparation for Fasting Test:

For tests requiring fasting, instruct the patient to:

Abstain from food and drink (except water) for a specified duration before the test.

Inform the patient about the importance of following the fasting instructions for accurate results.

11. Advance Patient Preparation for Specimen Collection:

Advance patient preparation involves providing instructions such as fasting, avoiding certain
medications, or specific preparations depending on the type of specimen to be collected.

12. Specimen Examples:

Specimens can include various biological materials:

Blood, urine, sputum, stool, saliva, tissue samples, etc.

13. Specimen Collection Guidelines:

Maintaining aseptic techniques, using appropriate containers, and ensuring correct labeling are
essential during specimen collection to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.

14. Proper Handling and Storage of Specimens:

Proper handling and storage are crucial to maintain the integrity of specimens and prevent
degradation:

 Blood: Use anticoagulants, store at appropriate temperature.

 Urine: Collect in a clean container, refrigerate if not tested immediately.
 Microbiologic Specimen: Use sterile containers.
 Stool Specimen: Collect in a clean, dry container.

15. Handling and Storage Techniques:

Different specimen types require specific handling and storage techniques to preserve their integrity
and ensure accurate results.

16. CLIA Test Categories:

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) categorize tests into three levels:

 Waived: Simple tests with a low risk of error.

 Moderately Complex: Require more training and have a moderate risk.
 Highly Complex: Demand a high level of expertise and have a higher risk.

17. CLIA-Waived Test:

Performing a CLIA-waived test involves following the manufacturer's instructions meticulously,

including proper technique and interpretation of results.

18. Automated Blood Analyzer Advantages:

Automated blood analyzers offer advantages such as speed, precision, and the ability to process large
volumes of samples efficiently.

19. Quality Control in CLIA-Waived Tests:

Quality control is essential for ensuring the reliability of results in CLIA-waived tests. Methods include
regular calibration and running control samples.

20. Laboratory Safety Guidelines:

To prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment, laboratory safety guidelines include:

 Proper labeling of chemicals and specimens.

 Appropriate handling of hazardous materials.
 Adherence to universal precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment
(PPE).