Page 202 - Registrar Orientation Manual 2016

Reference:
Effective date:
2015
Expiry date:
2018
Page:
28 of 28
Title: Laboratory Testing Guidelines (DRAFT)
Type:
Clinical Guideline
Version:
01
Authorising initials:
Requesting Tests
While in an ideal world we would never have to wait for tests, we do not live in an ideal world. Routine tests should not be requested after 1630hrs or at weekends.
Only request tests ‘out of hours’ if these are needed to make management decisions.
Where urgent tests are requested the relevant laboratory department must be contacted. Special care must be taken when requesting blood tests for transfusion.
A doctor must sign the request form and get consent for the patient to receive blood products.
If a patient requires a test to determine if they can go home please indicate this to the nursing staff so it can be done first thing in the morning.
All tests ordered must have the name of the responsible team or consultant.
Every test ordered by any clinician is the responsibility of that clinician or their delegated supervising team/consultant to electronically acknowledge.
The 'EMERG' label should not be used outside of ED or by non-EM specialities in ED. Note that “add on” testing is time consuming and it is better to try and get it right first time.
Correct collection of samples is critical. See http://lab.waikatodhb.health.nz/collection-guides/ You can get on line access to the Laboratory Handbook for comprehensive details of the
service. Please refer to the Laboratory Handbook for:
 Contact names and numbers
 Departmental hours of service
 Collection and labelling of specimens
 Accessing results through the ADT computer system
 Directory of tests, indications, normal ranges