Testing for Cardiac Markers
July 24, 2019
A recent IANZ audit highlighted ambiguity in cardiac marker requests and suggested adoption of standard terminology. Ambiguity in requests can lead to inappropriate tests being performed on patient samples, so from August 2019 we will introduce the following process: Cardiac Markers The cardiac marker we use at Pathlab is Troponin I which is a high sensitivity assay. Requests received…
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Swab Breakpoint
July 18, 2019
Pathlab provide both the Puritan Opti-Swab and Copan eSwab, liquid Amies collection and transport systems. They are almost identical in appearance, feature a flocked swab, are designed for ease of collection, and subsequent laboratory processing on automated platforms. They maintain viability of aerobic, anaerobic and fastidious bacteria for up to 48 hours, (gonorrhoea up to 24 hours), at room and…
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Hospital Clinicians - Extended Respiratory Viral Panel
May 31, 2019
Pathlab are pleased to announce the local implementation of an extended respiratory viral panel on the Qiastat-Dx molecular platform based at Pathlab Bay of Plenty. This is a multiplex assay using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology. Validation has now been completed on this assay and it is now available to clinicians at Tauranga, Whakatane, Rotorua and Taupo Hospitals. It has a turnaround…
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Pre-Requisite Clinical Details on all Microbiology Request Forms - Further Consultation
May 21, 2019
Background An initial consultation was released on this topic in 2017. There was only a small amount of feedback but what we received was generally positive. Given the time period that has passed since the last consultation it was decided that a further consultation should be held, describing in more detail the rationale. This proposal would make clinical details compulsory on all microbiology…
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Microscopic Examination of Stools for Ova, Cysts and Parasites
May 14, 2019
The microscopic examination of stool samples for ova, cysts and parasites is a commonly requested diagnostic test on patients with gastrointestinal symptoms on returning from overseas travel. However, the sensitivity of such testing can be extremely low, unless it is focused on those patients with a high risk of infection. The main parasitic enteric infections endemic to New Zealand are Giardia…
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