What is Pathology? A basic introduction

What is Pathology? The study of the cause and nature of disease Determined by the collection of samples of body tissue or fluids for laboratory analysis Also provides services such as lung function and electrocardiography Venepuncture

What is Pathology? Pathology is not a new science but new technology is changing the industry We can now measure blood glucose, haemoglobin and INR by fingerpick Specimen collectors continue to play a vital role in the industry

What is Pathology? Laboratory departments Haematology Biochemistry Pathology departments are divided into sections depending on the sample collected and the test required Haematology Biochemistry Microbiology Histopathology Immunology Cytopathology

What is pathology? Using resources define each department and find some examples of the types of tests performed

What is Pathology? Haematology The department where investigation of disorders of whole blood are performed Whole blood is the blood taken from the body in complete form Tests may be FBC, FBE, CBP, CBE CBC ESR INR

What is Pathology? Biochemistry Also called chemistry Tests for the presence of chemicals or abnormal substances LFT TFT, TSH,T4 Drug analysis Cardiac enzymes

What is pathology? Bacteriology Identifies micro-organisms that cause disease (pathogens ) HIV Hepatitis B,C

What is Pathology? Immunology Tests our immune system ANA ANF Paul Bunnell Epstein Barr

What is pathology? Histology and Cytology Looks for cell abnormalities Pap smear Biopsies

What is Pathology? Transfusion Tests for blood compatibility Group and crossmatch Group and type

What is Pathology? Pathology contributes indirectly to the well being of the Patient as the result may not decide the diagnosis, but merely eliminate a problem Direct influence can be the positive diagnosis of a problem with treatment then able to be ordered

What is Pathology? About 60%of pathology services are provided by private labs 66% of the services are covered by medical benefits Benefits are paid at the rate of 85% of the scheduled fee Females are greater consumers of health care than males

What is pathology? The Specimen Collector Vital to the promotion of accuracy of test results During collection important questions need to be asked Does the patient need to fast? Does the patient need to withhold medications? Should the test be performed at a specific time? Should a tourniquet be used?

The Specimen Collector What is the body tissue or fluid required? What is the correct collection procedure? What container does the specimen go in? What do you do if a Patient faints? Is the equipment clean and sterile? Have I identified the Patient? Have I labelled the specimen? Are standard and additional precautions being followed? Is the Collector skilled for this procedure?

Transportation Time is vital. Is this urgent? Has the specimen been stored correctly? Are the specimens safe from spillage?

Summary Pathology is an important diagnostic tool used by health professionals The role of a specimen collector is a vital link in the chain of diagnosis and effective treatment You can play your part by Maintaining patient confidentiality Fostering an atmosphere of trust between you and your patient Using you skills and knowledge to undertake your role to achieve the desired outcome