What is defined as a diagnostic test result requiring an urgent response from a clinical provider?

A diagnostic test result that is defined as requiring an urgent response from a clinical provider is known as a critical result. Critical results indicate immediate clinical significance, meaning that they may significantly impact patient outcomes if not addressed promptly. These results could suggest life-threatening conditions or situations that require immediate intervention or treatment. For instance, critical laboratory values for electrolytes, blood gases, or imaging findings that reveal significant pathology would fall under this category.

This term helps healthcare providers quickly identify information that necessitates rapid action, ensuring patient safety and effective care. In contrast, routine test results do not necessitate such urgent actions; normal results typically indicate no immediate concerns, while inconclusive results may require further testing rather than immediate response. Understanding the distinction between these types of results is crucial for effective clinical decision-making and patient management.