Routine labs

[Schmoo1022]

Hello,

I was just wondering how often you check routine labs? Like TSH, Dilantin and Valproic Acic levels. I am not talking about patients just starting on these meds, but long term, stable patients, who have been taking the meds for awhile. Also, what about labs pertaining to med use, like LFT's. We have some Dr's that order them routinely, and another Dr. that said "that is up to the facility to decide, unless I tell you otherwise." Well, we don't have a set schedule or protocal for when/how often. What does your facility do?

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

I think it depends on how long the person has been on the meds and if their labs are routinely "normal" or not. It also depends on whether the person is ill with something else that might alter medication metabolism/use or not. How often do the doctors who DO order routinely order the tests?

[morte, LPN, LVN]

Hello,

I was just wondering how often you check routine labs? Like TSH, Dilantin and Valproic Acic levels. I am not talking about patients just starting on these meds, but long term, stable patients, who have been taking the meds for awhile. Also, what about labs pertaining to med use, like LFT's. We have some Dr's that order them routinely, and another Dr. that said "that is up to the facility to decide, unless I tell you otherwise." Well, we don't have a set schedule or protocal for when/how often. What does your facility do?

frankly, i think the non ordering doc doesnt know, and he is passing it on to you.....check with the pharmacist they can be a great resource on this subject

[CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN]

A lot of those are ordered q 3 months.

Lytes and dig are added in that list.

Yes..if the docs can't give a straight answer, pharmacist normally can.

[Schmoo1022]

Thanks,

Most we do 3-6 months as long as they are stable.

[ame222]

Does anyone have an actual schedule with labs depending on what medication they take?