Blood tests

This is a controversial area. It is wise to have a standard screen and then add further tests in response to the history or examination:

• standard for major or moderately-involved procedures, or in the elderly:
  • urea and electrolytes
  • haemoglobin
  • haematocrit
  • full blood count
  • blood glucose: may be easier to do urinalysis along with protein and bilirubin
• supplementary:
  • group and save or cross-matching
  • LFT's: jaundice, malignancy
  • clotting studies: haemorrhage, warfarin or heparin therapy, liver disease
  • sickle cell test: depending on ethnic origin
  • TFT's: thyroid disorders
  • plasma cholinesterase activity: rarely, if indicated by the history