Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 10, 2026

Spatial Multiobjective Optimization of Agricultural Conservation Practices using a SWAT Model and an Evolutionary Algorithm
11:53

Spatial Multiobjective Optimization of Agricultural Conservation Practices using a SWAT Model and an Evolutionary Algorithm

Published on: December 9, 2012

13.5K

Improving serum calcium test ordering according to a decision algorithm

Daniel K Faria1, Leandro U Taniguchi2, Luiz A M Fonseca3

  • 1Divisão de Patologia Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.

Journal of Clinical Pathology
|May 20, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Implementing a decision algorithm significantly reduced serum calcium test ordering and duplication. This educational tool improved the adequacy of ionised calcium test ordering, particularly in non-critical patients.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Healthcare Management
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Serum calcium testing is a common laboratory procedure.
  • Inappropriate ordering of calcium tests can lead to increased healthcare costs and unnecessary patient monitoring.
  • A decision algorithm was implemented to guide the appropriate ordering of serum calcium tests.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of a decision algorithm on serum calcium test ordering patterns.
  • To assess changes in test utilization and adequacy before and after algorithm implementation.
  • To determine if the algorithm improved the appropriateness of calcium testing.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study comparing serum calcium test ordering in an internal medicine ward before (April 2013) and after (April 2016) algorithm implementation.
  • Patients were categorized as critical or non-critical.
  • Ordering adequacy was assessed based on adherence to the 2014 decision algorithm.

Main Results:

  • Total and ionized calcium tests per patient-day significantly decreased post-algorithm implementation.
  • Test duplication (simultaneous total and ionized calcium) was reduced by 49%.
  • Overall adequacy of ionized calcium determinations increased by 23%, driven by improved ordering in non-critical patients.

Conclusions:

  • A clinical decision algorithm serves as an effective educational tool.
  • The algorithm successfully improved the adequacy of serum calcium test ordering processes.
  • This intervention led to more appropriate utilization of laboratory resources.
Abstract

Keywords:
calcium metabolism disorderclinical laboratory serviceclinical practice guideline

More Related Videos

Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide09:52

Setting Up a Stroke Team Algorithm and Conducting Simulation-based Training in the Emergency Department - A Practical Guide

Published on: January 15, 2017

18.0K
Treatment with Vancomycin Loaded Calcium Sulphate and Autogenous Bone in an Improved Rabbit Model of Bone Infection09:09

Treatment with Vancomycin Loaded Calcium Sulphate and Autogenous Bone in an Improved Rabbit Model of Bone Infection

Published on: March 14, 2019

9.4K

Related Concept Videos

Decision Making01:20

Decision Making

Decision-making is a fundamental cognitive process that involves evaluating alternatives and selecting among them. This process can range from simple choices, such as deciding what to wear, to complex decisions, like choosing a major in college or a career path. The complexity of the decision often dictates the approach we use, which can be broadly categorized into two types: automatic and controlled decision-making.
Automatic decision-making is fast, intuitive, and relies on gut feelings...
1.0K
Trial and Error and Algorithm01:12

Trial and Error and Algorithm

A problem-solving strategy is a plan of action used to find a solution. Different strategies have distinct action plans. Trial and error involves trying different solutions until one works. For instance, to fix a broken printer, you might check ink levels, ensure the paper tray isn't jammed, and verify the printer's connection to your laptop. This method can be time-consuming but is commonly used. Thomas Edison, for example, used trial and error to find a suitable filament for the light...
429
Decision Making: P-value Method01:09

Decision Making: P-value Method

The process of hypothesis testing based on the P-value method includes calculating the P- value using the sample data and interpreting it.
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is proposed. The claim is based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to the claim  is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses:  a null hypothesis would be a neutral statement while the alternative hypothesis can...
7.0K
Decision Making: Traditional Method01:14

Decision Making: Traditional Method

The process of hypothesis testing based on the traditional method includes calculating the critical value, testing the value of the test statistic using the sample data, and interpreting these values.
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
5.5K
Improving Translational Accuracy02:07

Improving Translational Accuracy

3.7K
Improving Translational Accuracy02:07

Improving Translational Accuracy

Base complementarity between the three base pairs of mRNA codon and the tRNA anticodon is not a failsafe mechanism. Inaccuracies can range from a single mismatch to no correct base pairing at all. The free energy difference between the correct and nearly correct base pairs can be as small as 3 kcal/ mol. With complementarity being the only proofreading step, the estimated error frequency would be one wrong amino acid in every 100 amino acids incorporated. However, error frequencies observed in...
15.0K