TESTING AT THE PATIENTS BEDSIDE

Performing laboratory tests at the patient's bedside has become a popu lar component of care, primarily because of the immediate availability of test results. Bedside glucose monitoring programs have been the pr ototype for bedside testing and have provided the most experience in t his area. Studies of bedside glucose testing have shown that in order to obtain reliably accurate results, there must be a well-designed and well-implemented quality assurance program, which should involve labo ratory professionals. However, medical necessity, cost, and alternativ es should be thoroughly considered before beginning a bedside testing program, as well as the commitment to a strong quality assurance progr am.