Article Text
Abstract
This ninth best-practice review examines two series of common primary care questions in laboratory medicine: (i) potassium abnormalities and (ii) venous leg ulcer microbiology. The review is presented in question-and-answer format, referenced for each question series. The recommendations represent a précis of guidance found using a standardised literature search of national and international guidance notes, consensus statements, health policy documents and evidence-based medicine reviews, supplemented by MEDLINE EMBASE searches to identify relevant primary research documents. They are not standards but form a guide to be set in the clinical context. Most are consensus rather than evidence-based. They will be updated periodically to take account of new information.
- ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone
- CKD, chronic kidney disease
- ECG, electrocardiogram
- eGFR, estimated glomerular filtration rate
- GMS, General Medical Services
- HTA, Health Technology Agency
- best practice
- primary care
- interdisciplinary
- evidence-based medicine