Entering and validating test results

Entering and Validating Test Results

After a laboratory test is performed, the results must be entered into the system and validated before the ordering doctor can see them. This ensures accuracy and gives the lab a chance to flag unusual values.

Before you start

• The diagnostic order must exist and be in "in progress" or "pending results" status.
• You must be a laboratory technician, supervisor, or authorized user with result-entry permissions.
• Have the raw test results in hand (paper report, analyzer output, or bench notes).
• Understand the normal reference ranges for the tests being reported.
• If a result is outside normal range, you may need to flag it for supervisor review.

Steps

1. Navigate to the Diagnostics & Laboratory section and find the Pending Results or Orders list. Open in Usystems

2. Locate the order for which you have results. You can search by patient name, order ID, or test type.

3. Click on the order to open it and select the option to Enter Results or Add Results.

4. Fill in each test result with the measured value:

   • Enter the numeric value or categorical result (e.g., "Negative," "Positive").
   • Select the unit of measurement if prompted (e.g., mg/dL, µL).

5. Review reference ranges: the system usually displays the normal range for each test. Flag any result that falls outside the normal range.

6. (Optional) Add interpretive comments if needed (e.g., "Hemolysis noted on sample" or "Retest recommended").

7. Mark critical results if any value is dangerously abnormal or requires immediate physician notification.

8. Save the results. The system may require you to confirm that all entries are accurate before saving.

9. (Optional) Request supervisor validation if your facility requires a second check before results are released to clinicians.

10. Once approved, click Finalize or Release to Clinician to make results visible to the ordering doctor.

What happens next

• The ordering physician receives a notification that results are available.
• Results appear in the patient's medical record.
• Critical results may trigger automatic alerts to the physician.
• Results become part of the patient's permanent record.

Tips & common mistakes

• Double-check units: ensure the value and unit match the analyzer or bench report exactly.
• Flag outliers early: if a result seems unusual, flag it now rather than waiting for the doctor to question it.
• Use comments: brief notes about sample quality or unusual findings help clinicians interpret results correctly.
• Validation is not optional: if your facility requires it, never skip supervisor sign-off; it protects both patient and staff.