e-Article
The role of laboratory testing in hospitalised and critically ill COVID-19-positive patients.
Document Type
Article
Author
Source
Subject
*CRITICALLY ill
*CLINICAL pathology
*HOSPITAL care
*PATIENTS
*ROUTINE diagnostic tests
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Language
ISSN
1562-8264
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed healthcare resources around the world under immense pressure. South Africa, given the condition of its healthcare system, is particularly vulnerable. There has been much discussion around rational healthcare utilisation, ranging from diagnostic testing and personal protective equipment to triage and appropriate use of ventilation strategies. There has, however, been little guidance around use of laboratory tests once COVID-19 positive patients have been admitted to hospital. We present a working guide to rational laboratory test use, specifically for COVID-19, among hospitalised patients, including the critically ill. The specific tests, the reasons for testing, their clinical usefulness, timing and frequency are addressed. We also provide a discussion around evidence for the use of these tests from a clinical perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]