Point-of-Care Testing
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Nursing & Allied Health Dictionary
Definition
A nursing and allied health concept defining a care activity, clinical process, or operational practice used in healthcare delivery. It applies when clinical prerequisites are met and produces defined effects on safety, quality, and patient outcomes. It does not ensure outcomes without appropriate training, monitoring, and escalation when risks are identified.
Point-of-Care Testing
Health & Life Sciences Dictionary
Definition
Diagnostic tests performed at or near the site of patient care that return rapid results intended to inform immediate clinical decisions or actions; they encompass simple handheld devices, bedside instruments and some portable platforms but exclude tests that require central laboratory infrastructure or long processing times.