Critical Tests Results

Date of Last Review: 5/13/2011
SME:Chief Nurse Officer

Purpose:   To define critical tests and results as well as establish time frames for reporting.
           

1. Critical laboratory test(s) /value include the following:

2. Other Critical Test Values

EKG – Atrial fibrillation (especially with ventricular response)
greater than equal to 3 premature ventricular beats in 30 sec.

Pulse Oximeter – Notify less than equal to 90% RA

3. Critical test results are communicated to the RN responsible for the care of the patient.  If the nurse assigned to the patient is not available, test results will be communicated to the charge nurse or nursing supervisor.
   • Lab Corporation staff will be responsible for notifying the RN responsible for patient via telephone within 45 mins-1 hr of receipt of test results.
   • Staff performing the EKG /Pulse Oximeter will notify assigned nurse immediately.
4. The RN will be responsible for entering the patient’s name, test, results, date, time, name of reporter, and name of receiver in the online Medical Records under the Critical Test Template.
• The RN will be responsible for implementing the read-back process for telephone reporting of critical test results

5. The RN will notify the Attending Physician/House Officer of critical test results within 15 minutes of receipt of results.  If Attending Physician/House Officer is not available, tests results will be communicated to the Medical Director.
   • The RN will document notification of the physician.
6. The physician will take action(s) as appropriate.

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