Daily laboratory investigations can persist despite clinical stability for a variety of reasons (e.g., daily order without a stop date, not reassessing whether investigations are still needed). Observational studies suggest that resident physicians order routine daily CBC (complete blood count) and electrolyte panels more frequently than attending physicians. Daily phlebotomy contributes to patient discomfort and iatrogenic anemia. Studies support the safe reduction of repetitive laboratory investigations when patients are clinically stable without a negative impact on patient outcomes, including readmission rates, critical care utilization, adverse events, or mortality. Laboratory investigations should be ordered with a specific purpose which directly links to a specific management plan for patients.

Conditions: Iatrogenic anemia

Diagnostic Tests: Laboratory investigations, complete blood count (CBC), electrolyte panels

Procedures: Phlebotomy

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