Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(^168) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?
A small amount of blood is removed from the patient and is examined for
immunoglobulins, and their antibodies, antinuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factor,
and lupus erythematosus cell preparation. A positive finding indicates that the
patient has the corresponding immunologic disease, or has had some exposure.
WHAT TO DO?

• After the procedure:
  
  
  • Make sure that the site of the venipuncture isn’t bleeding to ensure that
    adequate clotting has occurred.
  
  
  
  


• Results should be available in several days.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay

(ELISA)

WHY IS IT GIVEN?

This determines if the patient’s blood contains antibodies for the human immuno-

deficiency virus (HIV) to determine if the patient is HIV-positive.

HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?

A small sample of blood is taken and examined for the presence of the HIV anti-

body. This is generally used for screening and confirmation is necessary with a

Western Blot test.

WHAT TO DO?

• Before the procedure:
  
  
  • Obtain written informed consent due to legal requirements.
  
  
  • Explain the purpose of the test and how the test results are interpreted.