An emergency department physician has a patient presented on emergency in what t

Question

An emergency department physician has a patient presented on emergency in what the doctor believes is a hypoadrenocorticism crisis. Serum biochemistry analysis is immediately submitted to assess the patient’s adrenal function. The physician plans to begin treating for the condition if ONE of the following changes is present: EITHER

Elevated potassium and decreased sodium; OR

Sodium:potassium ratio of <27:1.

This approach is best described as:

Serial testing, which increases sensitivity but decreases specificity

Serial testing, which increases specificity but decreases sensitivity

Parallel testing, which increases sensitivity but decreases specificity

Parallel testing, which increases specificity but decreases sensitivity

Explanation / Answer

Parallel testing is when two screening tests are performed togther and the results are combined. Parallel testing has high sensitivity and lower specificity.

Serial testing is when the second screening test is performed depending on the result of the 1st test. This has higher specificity and lower sensitivity.

This is a case of parallel testing. Therefore, the solution is;

Parallel testing, which increases sensitivity but decreases specificity

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