THE USE OF HEMATOLOGICAL SCREENING-TESTS IN ACUTE PSYCHOGERIATRIC ADMISSIONS

Objective: Case notes on 116 patients aged 65 or more admitted to a ge neral psychiatry hospital over a three month period were examined to a ssess the current use of haematological screening tests. Method: Retro spective justification for tests performed, rate of abnormal results, and consequences for patient management were assessed by case note rev iew. Results: A total of 200 screening tests, 105 of which appeared ju stified, were performed; 66 patients were screened, of whom 85% had at least one abnormal result. Those who were older were less likely to b e screened. There was no relationship between diagnosis and being scre ened. Of the 90 abnormal results received, less then one third affecte d clinical management. Conclusions: The financial and other costs of s creening tests are discussed. The current use of haematological screen ing tests in this population appears erratic and often adds little to patient management.