Understanding Laboratory Investigations

As nurses take on increased clinical responsibility, their role requires greater involvement with laboratory investigations. Taking samples, recording tests, liaising with medical staff on test results and helping to identify abnormal results are key skills which nurses must learn and develop. As well as being required to answer diverse patient questions concerning tests and results, some nurses are also directly involved in testing blood, for example in intensive care and diabetic nursing care. This comprehensive book covers the common investigations carried out in relation to patients' samples. Sections cover clinical chemistry, haematology, microbiology, blood transfusion and histopathology. The text explains the normal physiological function of the substance being measured, as well as the clinical significance of abnormal results in relation to the disease being diagnosed. The book also relates symptoms to abnormal results. Each chapter includes protocols for sample collection and transport, and indicates when test results require immediate clinical intervention.;Case studies are included throughout the book with questions to help students assess their understanding of the topic.