Context: Those new to Connect Care may fumble with the occasional test or procedure order. The is more likely with tests based on samples (e.g., aspirates) that can be collected in different ways in different contexts. Possible reasons for delays or declines include:
- Wrong Test
- A vast number of tests are available to request via Connect Care, including all possible orderables for an entire province.
- Different tests can have similar names. It is important to consider possible alternative test names, check the "Facility List" if nothing familiar appears on the "Preference List", and chose the most specific test description to fit your intent.
- Wrong Sample
- Test orderables can have similar names but relate to different clinical needs.
- If ordering a pH, for example, be sure to select the test appropriate to the fluid being sampled (e.g., venous, arterial, pleural).
- Wrong Details
- Orders for similar investigations may have specific required details for samples collected during specific workflows (e.g., surgical operation).
- Wrong Location
- An increasing number of assays can be performed using Point of Care Testing (POCT), with rapid result availability. However, the instrumentation needs to be available in-facility, as well as the test kits for the desired assay, with staff certified to use the equipment.
- Local variation in POCT availability is inevitable. Be sure to check with colleagues, or laboratory services, that the POCT orderable found in Connect Care is available on site.
- Wrong Permission
- In some cases, special assays require special permission in order to be performed. This will usually be communicated to the ordering prescriber.
Answer: Just as has always been the case, prescribers need to build an awareness of the laboratory services available at a particular facility. If in doubt, ask. Local laboratory services will know what can be ordered, and how. In addition, Connect Care "Resource Links" (top menu in Hyperspace) are provided for: