scope:

Many potential sites are eligible for point-of-care testing (POCT). To achieve producing patient test results comparable with those from the medical laboratory, this guideline provides essential tools for implementing and managing POCT in both clinical and nonclinical settings. Depending on the location, individuals who may perform POCT and for whom this guideline is intended include:

• Nurses and physicians in acute care units in hospitals and emergency rooms
• Cardiac perfusionists in operating rooms
• Visiting home nurses
• Emergency medical technicians
• Nurses in clinics, schools, and colleges
• Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in pharmacies
• Non-health care professionals at various employment settings, such as drug rehabilitation centers, law enforcement facilities, public screening sites, insurance companies, and physician office laboratories (POLs)

This guideline does not cover patient self-testing and the handling of results generated in this manner. Additionally, this guideline only applies to tests that involve the collection of patient specimens. Thus, examination devices such as breath analyzers, transcutaneous meters, and continuous glucose monitoring devices are outside the scope of this guideline.