Point of Care Tests

Point of Care Testing (POCT) – ‘Point-of-care testing, also known as near-patient testing, is the analysis of clinical specimens outside the traditional laboratory, near to or at the site of patient care. It may be performed by non-laboratory personnel including clinical staff whose primary training is not in medical laboratory science. It has an important role to play in the delivery of an efficient healthcare system because of its ability to provide a rapid result near the patient which can be acted upon immediately, and which may lead to a diagnosis or a possible change in patient care.’

Guidelines for POCT - The New Zealand Best Practice Guidelines for Point-Of-Care Testing 2022 [1] (updated November 2022) is a guideline for POCT. While laboratory-focused, key points related to risk, internal quality control, adverse event reporting and record keeping are vital in providing this essential service. All POCT testing procedures, worksheets and competency checklists can be accessed on the intranet for all Health NZ staff.

When utilising POCT the following principles should be applied:

• Careful consideration of clinical needs should be given before introducing any point-of-care testing

• Point-of-care testing should be seen as complementary to, and not as a replacement, for conventional laboratory testing

• An accredited laboratory should play a key role in the development and management of a point-of-care testing service

• As far as possible, results obtained from point-of-care testing should be incorporated into the patient’s health record. Availability

Availability - The Point of Care Coordinator is situated within the Laboratory at Base Hospital. Hours are Monday-Friday 8am-12pm. Tel 06 753 6139 EXT 7874.

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