Clinical biochemistry
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Clinical biochemistry · Feb 2009
ReviewCardiac point of care testing: a focused review of current National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry guidelines and measurement platforms.
Cardiac markers are a cornerstone for assessment of suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. The National Academy for Clinical Biochemistry has recently developed practice guidelines for clinical, analytical and point-of-care (POC) testing in the context of ACS. Several technologies have become available for POC applications. ⋯ Cardiac troponin measurements at POC are a viable alternative when testing needs cannot be met by the central laboratory. Laboratory medicine must be involved in implementation and ongoing service. Quality of testing must not be compromised by performance at POC.