Clinical lab section Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is studied in the hematology section of the lab?
The formed elements of blood — red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets — are enumerated and classified to detect disorders and infections.
Why are blood cells studied and examined in hematology?
To detect disorders and infections, and to monitor or guide treatment.
What is the most common specimen analyzed in hematology?
Whole blood.
What tube is commonly used to collect blood for hematology tests?
Lavender-top tube containing the anticoagulant EDTA.
What is the most automated section of the laboratory?
The Chemistry section.
What does electrophoresis analyze in the Chemistry section?
Chemical components of blood, serum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid based on electrical charge (e.g., hemoglobin).
What does toxicology analyze in the Chemistry section?
Plasma levels of drugs and poisons.
What does immunochemistry detect and measure in the Chemistry section?
Hormones, enzymes, and drugs using radioimmunoassay (RIA) and enzyme immunoassay techniques
What are profiles in the Chemistry section?
Groups of tests ordered together to evaluate the status of an organ, system, or general health.
What tests are included in a liver profile?
ALP, AST, ALT, GGT, and Bilirubin.
What tests are included in a coronary risk profile?
Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL, and LDL.
What is the main function of the Blood Bank section in the lab?
To collect, store, and prepare blood for transfusion.
Why is strict adherence to procedures important in the Blood Bank?
To ensure patient safety through proper patient identification and specimen handling.
What is collected blood used for in the Blood Bank?
It is tested, typed, and crossmatched for safe transfusion to compatible recipients.
What is the main purpose of the Serology (Immunology) section?
To evaluate the patient’s immune response by detecting the production of antibodies.
What type of specimen is used in the Serology section?
Serum
What can serology tests detect antibodies against?
Bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and the body’s own substances (autoimmunity).
What is the main purpose of the Microbiology section?
To detect pathogenic microorganisms in patient samples and assist with hospital infection control.
What is the primary test performed in the Microbiology section?
Culture and Sensitivity (C&S).
What does a Culture and Sensitivity (C&S) test do?
Detects and identifies microorganisms and determines the most effective antibiotic therapy.
How long do C&S test results usually take?
24 to 48 hours for most organisms; several weeks for tuberculosis and fungi.
Give an example of when C&S is used.
To help diagnose the cause of a fever of unknown origin (FUO).
What is the purpose of the Urinalysis section?
To detect kidney and urinary tract disorders, infections, and metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus.
Q: What are the three components of a urinalysis?
- Physical examination
- Chemical examination
- Microscopic examination
