Using Comments in Laboratory Test Orders
The "Comments" field of a lab test order allows prescribers to offer additional information that may be relevant to an order. It should be used carefully.
In particular, the comments field should not be used to give instruction to laboratory service personnel. Depending upon the type of test requested, it is possible that laboratory staff may not see prescriber comments.
Clinicians should remember that lab test order comments are visible to patients when test requisitions are printed. They may appear in patient portals (e.g., via the My Personal Records application of Alberta Health's MyHealth Records).
Prescribers should be mindful of local communication norms when using the "Comments" field. Comments should be concise, focused and clinically relevant.
To avoid laboratory test processing issues, including missed labs and misrouted results, comments should NOT include test-specific instructions for common, high-volume tests. They should not be used to request add-on assays and must not be used to request, copies, communications or specific results routing (delivery).
To avoid privacy breaches, comments should NOT include Personally Identifiable Information or Protected Healthcare Information for patients. Personally identifiable refers to the patient and anyone else in their circle of care.
Clinically important information should be documented or communicated via the appropriate Connect Care tools (e.g., Progress Note, Sticky Notes, MyAHS Connect result note).