Point-of-Care Testing (POCT)
Medical testing performed at or near the patient
Definition
Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) refers to diagnostic testing performed at or near the site of patient care rather than in a central laboratory. Results are available in minutes, enabling immediate clinical decisions.
Common POCT Examples
- Blood glucose (fingerstick)
- Rapid strep test
- Pregnancy test
- Rapid HIV test
- Influenza rapid test
- Urinalysis dipstick
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit (iSTAT)
- Arterial blood gases
- INR monitoring
- Occult blood test (FOBT)
Nursing Responsibilities
Quality control: verify device calibration, expiration dates, control tests. Follow manufacturer protocols. Document results and actions. Be aware of limitations. POCT results may require confirmatory lab testing.
NCLEX Relevance
Added in 2026 activity statements. POCT enables rapid clinical decisions.