Point-of-care testing

Abstract 

Point-of-care testing refers to an analytical test performed at or near the site of a patient, in a setting that is distinct from a normal hospital clinical laboratory. The aim of point-of-care testing is to reduce the time required to produce diagnostic test results (‘turn around time’) and, thus, improve clinical care. Point-of-care systems are used in a variety of clinical settings including; the operating theatre, critical care unit, emergency department, maternity unit and outpatient clinic.

Keywords: Near-patient testing, out-of-laboratory testing, point of care