Clinical Laboratory Tests

More than 350 alphabetically organized laboratory tests. Each entry gives the test's common name (and secondary names when appropriate); description; purpose and indications; patient preparation; procedures and equipment used; guidelines for sample and specimen collection; normal values; implications of results; post-test care; and factors that can affect test results. The 18 added tests include polymerase chain reaction and cancer antigen-125. Charts alert readers to drug blood levels, test results, diagnostic criteria, and more. Appendices feature critical laboratory test values and a guide to abbreviations.