Synonym/Acronym:
N/A
Rationale
To assist in confirming the diagnosis of infection or poisoning in cases of accidental or intentional exposure to agents of high risk to public health safety.
Patient Preparation
There are no food or fluid restrictions unless by medical direction; as a general rule, specimens should be collected prior to administration of antibiotics whenever possible.
Normal Findings
(Method: Disease specific) Negative findings for the organism or toxin of interest; negative serology; negative PCR.
Critical Findings and Potential Interventions
Timely notification to the requesting health-care provider (HCP) of any critical findings and related symptoms is a role expectation of the professional nurse. A listing of these findings varies among facilities.
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