MEDSURG LAB TESTS

Chest X-Ray

Provides information on anatomic location and appearance. Pre-Procedure Nursing Care includes removing metal objects, assessing breath-holding ability, and questioning pregnancy.

Sputum Collection

Obtained by expectoration, tracheal suctioning, or bronchoscopy. Pre-Procedure Nursing Care involves determining purpose, collecting specimen before antibiotics, and rinsing mouth with water.

Pulse Oximetry

Non-invasive test for arterial O2 saturation. Procedure includes placing a sensor on finger, toe, nose, or earlobe. SaO2 below 91% requires immediate treatment.

Bronchoscopy

Visual examination of larynx, trachea, and bronchi. Pre-Procedure involves NPO, assessing coagulation studies, and post-Procedure monitoring for complications.

Pulmonary Angiography

Involves insertion of a fluoroscope into the pulmonary artery. Pre-Procedure includes NPO, assessing coagulation studies, and post-Procedure monitoring for bleeding and dye reaction.

Thoracentesis

Involves inserting a needle into the pleural cavity. Pre-Procedure includes informed consent, NPO, and post-Procedure monitoring for complications.

Lung Biopsy

Indicated if other tests fail to identify pulmonary lesions. Pre-Procedure involves informed consent, NPO, and post-Procedure monitoring for complications.

Ventilation Perfusion Scan

Determines pulmonary airway patency. Pre-Procedure includes informed consent, assessing allergies, and post-Procedure monitoring reactions.

Skin Tests

Determine hypersensitivity. Precautions include avoiding areas with excessive hair, documenting test site, and assessing for reactions.

Arterial Blood Gas Analysis (ABG)

Measures tissue oxygenation, CO2 removal, and acid-base balance. Interpretation involves pH, cause (respiratory or metabolic), and compensation. Obtaining specimen includes Allen’s test and using a heparinized syringe.

Pulmonary Function Tests

Evaluate pulmonary function through spirometric measurements. Pre-Procedure involves informed consent, reporting allergies, and avoiding smoking.