Key features

• •Tests are presented comprehensively and consistently, in a sequence that best simulates priorities in clinical practice.
• •UNIQUE! Clinical Priorities boxes emphasize priorities and procedure considerations specific to understanding and performing tests.
• •UNIQUE! Test Results and Clinical Significance sections describe the significance of the test findings and discuss the pathophysiology of the disease process and how it relates to the test result.
• •UNIQUE! Home Care Responsibilities boxes focus on post-test factors for consideration.
• •UNIQUE! Related Tests sections list additional tests related to the main test ― including tests that provide similar information, confirmatory information, and other tests used to evaluate the same organ, disease process, or symptom complex.
• •UNIQUE! Critical Values sections indicate test values of particular significance.
• •UNIQUE! Icons indicate drugs that increase or decrease test values and patient teaching priorities.
• •Age-Related Concerns boxes address pediatric and geriatric priorities.
• •NEW and UPDATED! New tests have been added and outdated tests have been removed to reflect current best practices.
• •NEW! A Diagnostic Testing for the Most Common Diseases section highlights the integration of medical testing as it relates to the top diseases or clinical syndromes.