The Importance of Blood Tests for Patients Receiving Palliative Care in the United States

Written By Jessica Turner, BS, CPT

Summary

  • Blood tests are essential for monitoring the health of patients receiving palliative care in the United States.
  • The most common blood tests ordered for these patients include complete blood count (CBC), electrolyte panel, liver function tests, and kidney function tests.
  • These tests help Healthcare Providers assess the patient's overall health, track the progression of their illness, and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Introduction

When it comes to providing optimal care for patients receiving palliative care in the United States, Healthcare Providers rely on a variety of tools and resources to monitor their health and well-being. One of the most important tools in their arsenal is laboratory testing, specifically blood tests. These tests can provide valuable insights into the patient's overall health, disease progression, and treatment response. In this article, we will explore the most common blood tests ordered by Healthcare Providers for patients receiving palliative care in the United States.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A complete blood count, or CBC, is one of the most common blood tests ordered for patients receiving palliative care. This test provides valuable information about the patient's overall health and can help Healthcare Providers monitor for various medical conditions. A CBC typically includes the following components:

  1. White blood cell count: This measures the number of white blood cells in the blood and can indicate the presence of infection or inflammation.
  2. Red blood cell count: This measures the number of red blood cells in the blood and can indicate anemia or other blood disorders.
  3. Hemoglobin: This measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood, which is essential for oxygen transport throughout the body.
  4. Hematocrit: This measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood and can provide insights into hydration levels and blood disorders.

Electrolyte Panel

Another common blood test ordered for patients receiving palliative care is an electrolyte panel. This test measures the levels of various electrolytes in the blood, including sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. Electrolytes are essential for various bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function, hydration, and acid-base balance. An imbalance in electrolyte levels can lead to serious health issues, so monitoring these levels is crucial for patients in palliative care.

Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests are often ordered for patients in palliative care to assess the health and function of the liver. These tests can provide insights into liver function, liver enzymes, and the presence of liver disorders or diseases. Some common liver function tests include:

  1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
  2. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
  3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
  4. Albumin
  5. Total bilirubin

Kidney Function Tests

Kidney function tests are essential for monitoring the health and function of the kidneys in patients receiving palliative care. These tests can help Healthcare Providers assess kidney function, detect kidney disease or dysfunction, and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Some common kidney function tests include:

  1. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
  2. Creatinine
  3. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

Conclusion

Overall, blood tests play a crucial role in the care and management of patients receiving palliative care in the United States. These tests provide valuable information about the patient's overall health, disease progression, and treatment response. By ordering and monitoring common blood tests such as CBC, electrolyte panel, liver function tests, and kidney function tests, Healthcare Providers can ensure that patients in palliative care receive the best possible care and support.

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Jessica Turner, BS, CPT

Jessica Turner is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of California, Los Angeles. With 6 years of experience in both hospital and private practice settings, Jessica has developed a deep understanding of phlebotomy techniques, patient interaction, and the importance of precision in blood collection.

She is passionate about educating others on the critical role phlebotomists play in the healthcare system and regularly writes content focused on blood collection best practices, troubleshooting common issues, and understanding the latest trends in phlebotomy equipment. Jessica aims to share practical insights and tips to help phlebotomists enhance their skills and improve patient care.

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