Managing the lab test catalog and normal ranges

Managing the lab test catalog and normal ranges

Your laboratory's test catalog is the master list of all tests available for ordering and reporting. Each test in the catalog has a name, units of measurement, and a reference range (normal range) to help interpret results. This guide explains how to set up and maintain your test catalog.

Before you start

• You must have admin permission to manage the test catalog.
• Have a list of all tests your lab performs, including their names, units of measurement (e.g., mg/dL, mmol/L, cells/μL), and reference ranges for your population.
• Reference ranges may differ by age, gender, or specimen type; plan ahead if your lab uses multiple ranges per test.
• Test names should match the terminology your lab uses clinically and in reports.

Steps

1. Log in to Usystems and go to Settings → Lab Configuration (or Diagnostics → Lab Setup). Open in Usystems

2. Click the Test Catalog tab or menu item.

3. Click Add Test (or the plus icon) to create a new test in the catalog.

4. Enter the Test Name in English (for example, "Hemoglobin," "Fasting Blood Glucose," "Creatinine").

5. Enter the Test Name (Dari) — the Afghan Dari name used in your facility (for example, "هیموگلوبین," "گلوکوز خون ناشتا," "کریاتینین").

6. Select the Test Code or identifier if your lab uses codes (for example, "HGB," "FBG," "CR"). This is optional but recommended for billing and reporting.

7. Choose the Unit of Measurement from the dropdown (for example, "g/dL," "mg/dL," "μmol/L"). If your unit is not listed, you may need to contact your administrator to add it.

8. Enter the Normal Range (Min) — the lowest value considered normal for an adult (or the applicable population).

9. Enter the Normal Range (Max) — the highest value considered normal.

10. If your lab uses different ranges for children, males, females, or other subgroups, click Add Range Variant and repeat steps 8–9 for each variant, specifying the population it applies to.

11. Optionally, add a Description or clinical notes about the test (for example, "Measures oxygen-carrying capacity of blood" or "Requires fasting").

12. Check the Active checkbox to make the test available for ordering; leave it unchecked to hide it temporarily.

13. Click Save to add the test to your catalog.

14. Repeat steps 3–13 for each test your lab offers.

15. Review your catalog regularly to ensure ranges reflect your laboratory's performance and any clinical updates.

Accounting impact

Lab tests do not directly post to accounting. However, test services may be linked to service items with price and tax rules that affect invoicing when tests are ordered and billed.

Tips & common mistakes

• Keep test names consistent: use the same name across the catalog, order forms, and reports. Avoid abbreviations in the test name field; use the code field for abbreviations.
• Verify reference ranges: consult your laboratory's reference ranges, not generic ranges from textbooks. Ranges vary by population and equipment, and using incorrect ranges can lead to misinterpretation of results.
• Update ranges when equipment changes: if your laboratory upgrades instruments or reagents, the reference ranges may change. Review and update your catalog accordingly.
• Use population variants wisely: if your lab orders by age or gender, set up explicit variants. Avoid cluttering the catalog with rarely-used ranges; focus on the populations you serve.
• Document test requirements: use the description field to note any special requirements (fasting, timing of collection, specimen type) so clinicians ordering the test understand what is needed.

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