2 Diagnostic Tests and Procedures Free Online FlashCards

What does a complete blood count (CBC) measure?

A CBC measures red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. These results can help assess anemia, infection, and bleeding or clotting concerns.

How does a CMP differ from a BMP?

A BMP measures substances such as electrolytes, glucose, and kidney-function markers. A CMP includes these and selected liver-related tests; abnormal results alone do not establish a diagnosis.

What do PT/INR and aPTT assess?

Prothrombin time/INR and aPTT assess aspects of blood clotting. They can help evaluate bleeding risk or monitor certain anticoagulant therapies.

What do troponin, ECG, and echocardiography assess?

Troponin assesses heart-muscle injury and may require repeat measurements with clinical assessment. An ECG records electrical activity; echocardiography uses ultrasound to image the heart.

What does an arterial blood gas (ABG) help assess?

An ABG measures arterial oxygen and carbon dioxide and usually pH and bicarbonate. It helps assess oxygenation, ventilation, and acid–base status.

What key safety difference distinguishes MRI from X-ray and CT?

X-rays and CT use ionizing radiation. MRI uses a strong magnetic field, so implanted devices and metal must be screened according to facility procedure.

What should be checked before imaging with contrast material?

Ask about prior contrast reactions and relevant conditions such as kidney disease, then follow the imaging team’s instructions.

What should be verified about fasting and medicines before a test?

Check the specific test instructions because some tests require fasting and many do not. Do not advise stopping medication unless the responsible clinician directs it.

What practices help preserve specimen integrity?

Use the correct container and collection method, prevent contamination, and label at collection with required identifiers and specimen details. Follow policy if a specimen is compromised or mislabeled.

What helps improve blood-culture collection quality?

Careful skin and bottle-septum disinfection and adequate volume help reduce contamination and improve detection. Collect before antimicrobials when feasible, without delaying urgent treatment.

How is a clean-catch urine specimen collected?

After hand hygiene and perineal cleansing, collect midstream urine in the sterile container without touching its inside. Transport or store it as directed.

What kind of sample is needed for a sputum test?

Collect material coughed from the lungs, not saliva. Follow instructions for mouth rinsing and use of the specimen cup.