An unmet need in acute units

Earlier in the week, we explored how syndromic testing can be used appropriately, as part of a full clinical picture and with good clinical judgement, to maximise patient benefit and eliminate associated risks. In this video, Dr Kay Roy discusses some of the challenges present in acute settings and the important implications of using rapid syndromic testing in such settings.

The value of POCT in bringing diagnostics closer to the patient has previously been discussed. Importantly, such tests hold the most benefit when used closer to the start of a patient’s journey. The fast turnaround time offered by the use of syndromic testing is particularly important in the context of emergency departments (EDs), where cohorts can be quickly isolated before they are discharged or enter the main hospital. Negative tests offer equal value, allowing patients who do not need to be isolated to also be identified.

References cited in the video have been provided as links in the see also section below.