Point-of-care testing is finding ever greater application outside the conventional medical laboratory. Here, audit of the use of phase contrast urine microscopy in paediatrics is explored in terms of training and quality, as Michelle Payne and Vikki Booth explain.
Rapid diagnosis of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in young children supports prompt treatment and reduces permanent kidney scarring.1 In contrast to the use of urinary dipsticks, phase contrast urine microscopy (PCUM) has been shown to be highly sensitive and specific as a rapid screen for UTIs in very young children.2
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (NuTHFT) offers a unique PCUM diagnostic service within its paediatric direct-access service. Observation of the presence of bacteria is used to support laboratory services in the rapid detection of potential UTIs and to identify quality specimens for gold standard laboratory culture via indication of contamination.
Previous training of clinical staff performing the test involved ad-hoc biomedical scientist-led drop-in sessions and unstructured peer support. An earlier audit supported the use of PCUM as a screening test for bacteria, but indicated a requirement for improved training in the use of POCT.
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