Point-of-care Testing (POCT): Implementation and Management in Healthcare Services
Tunji Akande *
Department of Chemical Pathology, Bingham University, Jos, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Point of care testing (POCT) is one of the fastest growing aspects of clinical laboratory testing, and it is used in many healthcare areas.
Objective: This article aims to review the implementation and management of a POCT service in the Hospital and other healthcare settings.
Method: A literature review.
Results: POCT service has provided the physician with the test results promptly when a decision needs to be taken regarding the care of the patient. A timely result may be justified in the emergency department, the operating room, the intensive and critical care units of the Hospital
Conclusion: Establishment of POCT laboratory has succeeded in reducing the turnaround time of test results, and for the hospitalised patients, it has been able to reduce the length of stay resulting in improved patient management.
Keywords: POCT service, implementation, management, patient safety