Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(Sean Pound) #1

(^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.



Free download pdf