PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING PATIENT TEST RESULTS

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Once a test result is obtained, indicate exactly how it is reported to the physician. Include any steps such as logging in, signing or dating, attaching result to the patient chart, etc.

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Are abnormal results reported differently than normal results? If so, indicate below how abnormal results are reported.

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Are any results considered "panic" (also called "critical" or "action") values? If so, indicate the analyte and the panic value below.

Analyte Panic Value

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Indicate how panic values are handled in this laboratory:

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RESULT REPORTING

NORMAL TEST RESULTS

The testing analyst signs or initials the test report. Computer-generated reports are reviewed by testing personnel to ensure all tests were reported and that quality control is acceptable. Reports for manual tests are written in the appropriate spaces on the result form.

ABNORMAL TEST RESULTS

All abnormal results are circled in red ink, flagged, or otherwise designated. Do not report results that exceed reportable ranges for an instrument.

PANIC VALUES

All panic value results are verified by repeat testing. Verified panic values are immediately reported to a physician (preferably the patient's physician). Designate on the test report the person notified, the time and date, and the person who notified the physician.

ERRONEOUS RESULTS

Immediately after recognizing an erroneous result has been reported:

1. Contact the individual who received the original report and notify whether or not a corrected result will be forthcoming.

2. When possible, retest the original specimen to obtain the correct result.

3. Report the corrected result, noting on the report the original result and that this is a corrected result. If the original report is available, document on the report that the original result was in error. Have the physician resign the report indicating awareness of the error.

4. Document on the monthly quality assurance checklist all the actions associated with the erroneous result, including: all patient information, dates, times, individuals involved, original and corrected results, why the erroneous result was reported and what will be done to prevent it from recurring.

5. Maintain all original and corrected reports for two years.

Quality America, Inc.,