Utilizing Point-of-Care Testing to Optimize Patient Care

Nichols, James H.

BACKGROUND: Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) is clinical laboratory testing conducted close to the site of patient care. POCT provides rapid turnaround of test results with the potential for fast clinical action that can improve patient outcomes compared to laboratory testing. METHODS: Review the advantages of POCT and discuss the factors that are driving the expansion of POCT in modern healthcare RESULTS: Portability, ease-of-use, and minimal training are some of the advantages of POCT. The ability to obtain a fast test result and the convenience of testing close to the patient are increasing the demand for POCT. Healthcare is finding new opportunities for growth in the community and POCT is facilitating this growth. CONCLUSIONS: This article will review the advantages of POCT and how POCT is complimenting patient care in a variety of settings.