CyberLAB Glossary Terms

 

 

A

ABN

Advance Beneficiary Notice. A form signed by a patient or his/her guardian that acknowledges a medical procedure is not medically necessary and is therefore not covered by federally funded health care programs. The signer agrees to pay for the procedure.

Abnormal

There are two categories of abnormal test results:

 

Low/High - A test between the normal range and the panic/critical values. For example, if the normal range is set between 4 and 8 and panic/critical is set outside 2 and 10 for a test in the Test Dictionary, then an abnormal result of 3 triggers a Low (L) flag, and an abnormal result of 9 triggers a High (H) flag.

 

Panic/Critical - A test result is beyond the panic/critical value. For example, if the panic/critical value is set for a test outside 2 and 10, then a test result of 1 triggers a Very Low (VL) flag, and another test result of 13 triggers a Very High (VH) flag.

 

Also see, Test Result Ranges.

Accession Number

The unique number assigned to each order for a patient and also referred to as the Sample ID.

Account

Account ID and Account Name are replaced by Client ID and Client Name in CyberLAB. Both refer to health care providers on a facility's Client (Doctor) Master file.

Admission Number

A unique code assigned to an inpatient and outpatient at a facility. Now referred to as Visit ID.

Admit ID

A code assigned to an inpatient and outpatient at a facility. Now referred to as Visit ID.

Admitting Doctor

The doctor who admits the patient to the facility for a medical evaluation or services. Also referred to as the ordering doctor.

Advance

To move to the next screen in the CyberLAB system.

Alpha Result Conversion

The five-alphabetic-character result for alpha tests can be expanded into an 11-character word when the result is viewed in Patient Inquiry or printed in a clinical report.

 

In the Alpha Result Conversion Table of the CyberLAB system, a NEG result can be set to display as NEGATIVE when viewed in Patient Inquiry or printed in a clinical report.

Alpha Test

A test that has two common result values, NEG (negative) and POS (positive). But, a facility can define numerous alpha values.

Antimicrobial

A drug that kills microorganisms or suppresses their multiplication or growth.

Application Access

A user is able to open and work in an application. The role of the user and the specific functions that he or she performs determine the level of access within the application. See Security and Confidentiality.

Aspyra

The name of the company that produces the CyberLAB application.

Attending Doctor

The doctor who is assigned to the patient when he or she enters the facility.

Authorization Flag

A HIPAA authorization message that indicates whether or not the patient authorizes their clinical data to be used for purposes other than Treatment, Payment, and Healthcare Operations (TPO).

 

CyberLAB reports generated internally do not perform filtering because they are designed to use TPO.

Autorelease

An option in Multichannel Result Editing that enables a facility to automatically release all samples with normal test results, post them for immediate viewing, and send them to the patient files without human intervention.

Autotransmit

To electronically transmit a clinical report. Replaces the word, AutoDial.

B

Background

Behind-the-scene functions in an application are of  two types: The programmed functions that operate individual screens in an application and the basic management and maintenance functions of an application.

Barcode

A code that consists of patterned bars and spaces and identifies a specific object. The barcode is designed to be scanned and read by an instrument or inserted into a data field.

Barcode Printer

A printer that produces printable and scannable barcode labels for each sample.

Bidirectional Instrument Interface

Tests are downloaded  to a computerized instrument, and the results are uploaded from the instrument into the CyberLAB system.

Bill-Only Test

A test that is identified as a charge (bill-only) test in the Test Dictionary. A bill-only test does not have a result or specimen associated with it and it does not print on the patient report.

Its main use is to generate a charge for a procedures or an item that does not have a result associated with it. The bill-only type is also used when the Global Order Entry feature is activated to direct an order to another test when the bill-only test is ordered.

Bill Type

Medicare, Medicaid, other insurance, patient, or Medi-Medi (patient covered by Medicare and Medicaid). The method by which patient charges are paid.

Biochemical

Characterized by, produced by, or involving chemical reaction in living organisms. A chemical reaction is a process in which one or more substances are changed chemically into one or more different substances.

Biochemical Panel Code

A unique code, limited to three alphanumeric characters, that identifies a group of biochemical tests or miscellaneous reportable protocols.

 

The code is used to group selected biochemical tests during a culture workup and to display them as a group during result entry. Biochemical Panel codes are defined in the Biochemical Panel Maintenance section of the Microbiology Parameter Maintenance submodule.

Biochemical Test Code

A unique code, limited to three alphanumeric characters, that identifies individual

biochemical tests or miscellaneous reportable protocols selected for inclusion within a biochemical panel.

 

The Biochemical Test codes are defined in the Biochemical Test codes section of the Microbiology Parameter Maintenance submodule.

Browser

A piece of software that is the interface between the user and the intranet. See CyberLAB and the Intranet.

Build

To establish or set up the contents of a database, components of a panel test, or the elements of a rule.

C

Calculated Test

A test in which the results are calculated by the CyberLAB system. The calculations are defined within the CyberLAB system.

Calendar

A graphic image that enables a user within the CyberLAB system to select the month, day, and year for a date. See Dates, Calendars and Times.

Call Report Comments

A feature that allows the laboratory technologist to alert the doctor by telephone if the patient's test result is abnormal. Information entered in the Call Report Comments dialog box is retained in the Call History section of Patient Inquiry and can be included on the clinical report.

Canned Comment

Slang. See Predefined Comment.

Case Sensitive

A computer system or database that requires text to be entered in a specific way: all lowercase letters, initial capitalization and lowercase letters, or all capital letters. And, allow all or some keyboard and mathematical symbols.

Characters

Letters, numbers, or symbols. Some text boxes in the CyberLAB system allow alphanumeric characters which are a combination of letters, digits, and mathematical symbols.

Chart Number.

Replaced by Visit ID in the CyberLAB system. See Visit ID.

Checkbox

A square box that is selected or cleared to turn on or off an option.

CIS

A Clinical Information System (CIS) is the main database in which the data of a clinic resides. The CIS can interface with a LIS (Laboratory Information System), such as the CyberLAB system.

Class ID

A code that is assigned to each classification of users.

This includes function-specific accessibility that defines the specific modules, submodules, and functions an individual user in a user classification can access to perform job-required tasks.

Click

To position a pointer over a text box and rapidly depress, or click, the left or right button on the mouse.

Client

Replaces the terms Account ID and Account Name in the CyberLAB system. Refers to the health care providers who are listed on a facility's Client (Doctor) Master file, medical facility, or customer.

 

Healthcare providers include:

 

Client ID

An unique identification assigned to each doctor, medical facility, or customer. In the CyberLAB system, this ID is associated with the information about the client.

Collection

To obtain a sample from a patient for a test.

Collection Date

The date on which a sample, such as blood, is obtained from a patient to perform a test.

Colony Count

A direct count or quantitative indicator of viable, isolated bacteria or fungi or spores capable of growth in culture media. Predefined comments are used to describe the patient's microbial load.

 

The colony count is defined in the Colony Count and Comment Codes section of the

Microbiology Parameter Maintenance submodule.

Comment

A brief phrase that explains or interprets a topic, such as a comment about a sample or a comment about the collection of a sample. Comments are entered or selected by users.

Comment Code

A list of predefined comments that can be used to describe the condition of the specimen, collection directions, test results, or patient instructions. Comment codes are predefined by your facility. Formerly, message code.

Concatenated

A series of tests. A chained list.

Confidential Test

If a user does not have access to view confidential tests, the phrase confidential test appears in place of the test name, and  *****  displays for the result.

 

Tests are defined as confidential in the Test Dictionary. Access to view confidential tests is defined at the User ID level in the File Maintenance module.

Consent Flag

A HIPAA consent message indicates whether or not the patient consents to treatment by a doctor or caregiver.  

Console Tests

These tests are Urinalysis, Manual Differentials, and Microbiology.

Copy

Apply the rules or characteristics of one test, Quality Control values, or Medical Necessity Validation rule to another.

Cross-Reference

Cross-Reference Maintenance establishes an interface between systems that enables the Test codes and Client IDs used within the hospital or clinic system to be cross-referenced to the Test codes and Client IDs used within the CyberLAB system.

Crystal Reports

A software application developed by Seagate Software to query a database. It is used within the CyberLAB system.

Culture

Growth of living material in prepared nutrient media.

Cumulative Report

Test results for several orders (accessions) are listed in one report.

Cursor

A movable cue, also known as a pointer, that marks a position on a screen. It usually displays as a blinking vertical line.  The next character you enter from the keyboard displays at the cursor's position.

CyberLAB® System

The CyberLAB system refers to the application produced by Aspyra. Also, referred to as the system.

CyberMATE Batch ID

A number or code assigned to a group of specimens collected by a phlebotomist and recorded in CyberMATE.

CyberMATE Collection Module

A secure, handheld device that assures phlebotomists they draw specimens from the correct patient for the correct ordered test.

With a wand attached to CyberMATE, the phlebotomist can scan the patient's wristband to ensure patient identification. When the specimens are collected, the action is recorded in CyberMATE and later uploaded to CyberLAB.

CyberPrinter

A system printer that is designated to print Interim Reports. When a printer is designated as a CyberPrinter, you can set when the printer is active: Instant (always active) or Timed (the time period when it is active). The Timed selection allows clinical reports sent to the printer to be batched and printed within a specified time periods.

 

The active status can be set in Sample Type/CyberPrint Maintenance in the File Maintenance module.

 

D

Date

Contains the month, day, and year or just the month and year. Is required information on numerous screens in the CyberLAB system. See Dates, Calendars and Times.

DDS

The Document Delivery System (DDS) is software that inserts text reports created by the CyberLAB system into Word document templates for distribution.

Decision Support

Tools within the system used to streamline processes, reduce turnaround time, and support effective decision-making. Order Entry Decision Support allows a facility to properly route tests to an approved performing laboratory based on the criteria of the payer, such as an insurance company.

Default

A value for a text box that can be determined and assigned when the software is installed or later. A default is automatically applied, if the user does not make an entry or a selection. A text box can also be without a default.  

Default Result

Used to accelerate results entry for alpha or numeric tests. Default Result allows a laboratory technologist to enter the same value, such as the default NEG, for a batch of samples.

 

Then, these results can be reviewed on the Results Entry screen, and the NEG can be change to POS or other value for those samples with a result other than the default.

Default Result Flag

It is optional to use a flag for the default result value entered for the alpha or numeric tests. However, if a letter and number are entered, the system prompts you to select a flag.

Demography

A profile of a patient that includes basic information, such as name, address, telephone, date of birth, doctor, and insurance provider.

Device ID

A two-or three-character code that identifies the instrument or device on which a test is performed. The code contents can include the two-character Device ID for the instrument and a one-digit address (if it is an interfaced instrument), or can consist of three user-defined characters.

Dialog Box

A box that contains various kinds of options and buttons through which users can carry out a particular command or task. Examples of dialog boxes in the CyberLAB system are those that allow the user to enter free text, select predefined comments, or combine free text and predefined text to form a comment.

Differential

Manual differential results determine the qualitative and quantitative variations in white cell numbers and morphology, the morphology of red cells, and platelet evaluation. In Differential Result Entry in the CyberLAB system, manual differential results can be quickly entered or modified.

Direct Entry of Differential Results

In the Differential Result Entry submodule, a user enters whole values in each cell type text box. This type of entry is used when a count was previously performed, perhaps with a manual differential cell counter.

Direct Smear Result

A unique code, usually limited to three alphanumeric characters, that describes the appearance of organisms in the original inoculum.

 

Examples could include results for Gram stains (i.e.,  Few Gram Pos Rods), AFB smears (i.e., No Acid Fast Bacilli Seen or No Organisms Seen), or direct microscopic fungal exams (i.e., Filamentous Mycelial Fragments Present). These codes are used at result entry.

Doctor

See Client.

Double-Click

Two quick clicks of the left mouse button in succession.

Download

The process of transferring a copy of a program or file to your computer from the Internet, a remote computer, or server.

DRG

Refers to the Diagnosis-Related Group. Diseases and disorders of the body are classified into 23 major diagnostic categories. Each category is further divided into DRGs, of which there are about 467.

Drop-Down List

A type of list box with an arrow at the right. Click the arrow, and the list displays.

 

E

Edit

To review and/or modify text entered in text boxes or comment dialog boxes. A user performs the edit function to review and release the results of patient tests performed on an instrument that interfaces with the CyberLAB system.

Enter

To type information in a text box or text area.

Erroneous

A test result that is absurd and probably repeated or deleted. For example, if the Erroneous range is set between 0 and 15 for a test in the Test Dictionary, an Erroneous test result can be 0 or 30. Also see, Test Result Ranges.

Extended Numeric Test

See Numeric Test Range: Extended Range.

F

Facility

An entity, such as a hospital, clinic, or reference laboratory in which the CyberLAB system is installed.

Failed Delta Comments

A result is compared to a previously released result for the same test and the same patient. Each result that has a Delta Percent variance greater than allowed displays a Failed Delta Comments dialog box, in which you must enter free text comments or select predefined comments to accept the latest result.

Flags

A flag indicates the degree or level of a test result. The flags are based on ranges set for each test when it is defined in the Test Dictionary.

The common values indicated by the flags are: normal (blank), low (L), high (H), very low (VL), and very high (VH).

FRS

A File Recovery System rebuilds files when the CyberLAB system detects and alerts the user that files are corrupted.  FRS inspects every file for corruption and allows the files to be rebuilt, which recreates the indices.

G

H

Hardware

Refers to physical objects, such as consoles, printers, monitors, and cables, that are accessories of a computer.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

A federal legislative act passed in 1996 that mandates privacy regulations for medical records. HIPAA applies to health plans, medical care providers, and data clearinghouses.

Held and Hold

To enter test results that are held for review and release by a supervisor. Held test results cannot be viewed and do not appear on clinical reports.

Help

See Online Help.

HIS

A Hospital Information System is the main database in which the data of a hospital resides. The HIS system often interfaces with ancillary systems, such as the CyberLAB Laboratory Information System (LIS).

HIS/CIS

The main database of a hospital or clinic that  connects to (or interfaces with) an ancillary system, such as the CyberLAB LIS. The interface allows data to be transmitted and shared between systems. Usually, ADT (demography) and orders are transmitted from the HIS/CIS to the LIS. Results and billing data are transmitted from the LIS to the HIS/CIS.

HL7 (Health Level 7)

A standard for the exchange, integration, sharing and retrieval of electronic health information. Health Level Seven is a standards developing organization with headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The organization has more than 2,200 members worldwide.

Host System

The main database of a hospital or clinic.

Hot Key

A key or key combination that causes a function to occur in the computer. If a letter on a button or a tab screen is underlined in the CyberLAB system, use the combination of the Alt key and the underlined letter to perform the function. For example, you can press Alt and O on the keyboard or click the OK button.

Hyperlink

An underlined word or phrase that a user clicks to go to a location in a file or to another file in the Online Help of the CyberLAB system.

I

Icon

A graphical image of an entity, such as a calendar (face of calendar) or online Help documentation (book). See Icons in CyberLAB.

ID

A unique identification that is assigned, for example, to a sample order, a patient visit, a device, or a range in the CyberLAB system.

Interface and Interfaced

A connection between two pieces of electronic equipment. For example, automated instruments interfaced with the CyberLAB system can transmit test results directly to the modules in the system.

Interim Report

A report that contains the results of all of the tests ordered on one accession. The Interim Report, also called a clinical report, can be a final report on the order or a partial report with the final (or completed) report expected later.

Interim Report Rules

Interim Report Rules enable your facility to set up criteria that 1) triggers an Interim Report, 2) specifies the destination of the report, 3) indicates when to generate the report, and 4) defines client parameters, location parameters, and general parameters.

 

The Interim Report Rules operate in conjunction with the parameters that your facility set up for the Interim Report in Report Parameters.  

Internet

An electronic communications network that connects computer networks and organizational computer facilities around the world.

Intranet

An electronic communications network that connects the internal computer networks of a company or the divisions of a multinational corporation.

Invalid Entry

The system displays an invalid entry message, if you do not provide information in a text box, or the information entered is incorrect (invalid).

J

K

Keyboard and Keys

For a description of functions, see Mouse and Keyboard.

Known

A quality control defined for a test in the QC Dictionary Maintenance submodule. The known can be x1 to x8, where x equals any letter.

 

L

Levey-Jennings Charts

Charts used to plot and interpret laboratory quality control (QC) tests in the Quality Control module of the CyberLAB system.

LIS

A Laboratory Information System, such as CyberLAB, that interfaces with the main database of a hospital or clinic.

List

A series of names, words, and other items, such as a selection list.

 

Other lists include Antibiotic codes, Biochemical Test codes, Call Report Phone List, Colony Count and Comment codes, Culture Source codes, CyberMATE Devices, Direct Smear Result codes, Media codes, MNV Rules, Morphology codes, Organism/No Growth codes, Organism Setup IDs, Point-of-Care Tests, and Sensitivity Patterns.

Live Sample

A collected specimen that has been received in the laboratory of the performing site.

Load List

An electronic document that lists samples and tests to be performed on an automated instrument.

Log

A record or history of activities, changes, or performances that are automatically tracked by the system.

Low/High

An abnormal test result that is between the normal range and the panic/critical values set for a test in the Test Dictionary. For example, if the normal range is set between 4 and 8 and the panic/critical value is set outside 2 and 10, a test result of 3 triggers a Low (L) flag, and a test result of 9 triggers a High (H) flag.

 

Also see, Test Result Ranges.

M

Manual Entry

A user enters test results or other patient data directly on the appropriate screens in the CyberLAB system.

Matrix

A maximum of seven single tests that are grouped together to appear on a worksheet or display on an entry screen. The matrix test is any single test that is not defined for a load list or a panel test.

Maximize and Minimize

At the top right corner of a computer screen, the center of three buttons allows the user to increase (maximize) a screen to full size, or to decrease (minimize) the screen to about one-half of its size.

 

The left button is clicked to minimize a screen to the taskbar or to maximize a screen from the taskbar. The right button deletes the file and should NOT be used in the CyberLAB system.

Mean

A value that lies at the middle point within a range. The number of digits that can be entered to the left or to the right of the decimal is dependent on the precision of the test.

Media Code

The unique code, usually limited to three-alphanumeric characters, that is assigned to the culture media. The code is used to select media for inoculation.  Associates culture media with colony morphologies at results entry.

Medical Necessity Validation (MNV)

A requirement to confirm the need for a test that is ordered for the patient, based on the patient's diagnosis and ordered tests.

Message

Also, known as system message. A notice generated by the CyberLAB system. User-defined messages are now referred to as comments in the CyberLAB system with the exception of system messages, such as those that display at the bottom of the screen. The Message Master is now known as the Comment Master.

Micro Received Date

The date on which the received specimen is logged into the microbiology department.

Micro Received Tech

The person who logs the received specimen into the microbiology department.

Micro Received Time

The time at which the received specimen is logged into the microbiology department.

Micro Setup ID

A unique identification, limited to three alphanumeric characters, that is assigned to the organism identification method. Used to select an organism identification method during workup. The Organism Setup ID displays on microbiology work cards and can print on clinical reports.

 

Setup ID is defined in the Organism Setup Identification section of the Microbiology Parameter Maintenance submodule. Examples are: GNI, a Gram negative identification panel; GPI, a Gram positive identification panel; HN1, Haemophilus/Neisseria identification (HNID).

Micro Site

The area of the body from which the specimen is obtained. For example, a wound of the right toe.

Micro Source

A unique code that indicates the source from which the specimen is obtained. For example, the source can be blood, stool, or urine.  The code is limited to three-alphanumeric characters.

MNV Checking

The CyberLAB system can perform Medical Necessity Validation assessments.

MNV Checking: Frequency

Medical Necessity Validation and/or failure class for tests based upon how frequently they are ordered.

MNV Checking: Investigative

Medical Necessity Validation and/or failure class for tests when ordered for investigative purposes.

MNV Checking: Screening

Medical Necessity Validation and/or failure class for tests when ordered for screening purposes.

MNV Checking: Standard

Medical Necessity Validation and/or failure class for tests that are considered standard or routine for the specified ICD-9 Code.

Module

A section of the CyberLAB system that contains a specific function, such as Patient Entry/Inquiry or Results Entry.

Morphology

A description of form and structure, such as in colony growth on media, in red or white blood cells, or in urinalysis sediment.

Mouse and Click

For a description of the mouse and the click function, see Mouse and Keyboard.

Multisite

A facility with multiple or satellite sites, such as laboratories.

N

No Growth Result Code

A code that describes no growth of microorganisms in a nutrient medium after a specific length of time.

Normal Range

A patient test result that is within the normal range, as set in the Test Dictionary. If a normal range is set between 4 and 8 for a test in the Test Dictionary, then a test result of 5 is normal, and no flag displays. See, Test Result Ranges.

 

By convention, the normal range is set to cover 95 percent of values from a normal population. The remaining 5 percent of results therefore fall outside the normal range.

Nosocomial

A patient infection that is not present or incubating prior to admittance to a facility

and can be acquired in the facility. Microbiology reports can be filtered by the nosocomial flag.

Numeric Test

A test that uses digits with decimals to indicate a test result. For example, 1.0 or 3.0.

Numeric Test Ranges

Ranges for numeric test results are defined by a facility in these categories in the CyberLAB system: male, female, non-gender, panic/critical, erroneous, and extended normal range.

Numeric Test Range: Male

Used to define the normal range for male patients.

Numeric Test Range: Female

Used to define the normal range for female patients.

Numeric Test Range: Nongender

Used to define the normal range for all patients when the male and female ranges have not been defined or when the patient's gender is not provided in the patient's demography.

Numeric Test Range: Panic/Critical

Used to define what is regarded as panic/critical range values for a test. The intent of this range is to provide an alert that a test result is abnormal.

Numeric Test Range: Erroneous

Used to define criteria for absurd test results. This range is optional.

Numeric Test Range: Extended Range

Used to define 84 different ranges based on age, sex, species, and the instrument and location in which the test was performed.

O

Online Help

Electronically stored information --words and pictures-- that can be quickly accessed by a user in an application. Often used instead of published (paper) user manuals.

Option Button

The round button, formerly referred to as a radio button, allows you to activate a function. Commonly used to indicate a Yes or No response.

Order Entry

Ordered tests requested by a doctor and entered into the CyberLAB system. The system tracks when each test is performed, analyzed, reviewed, and accepted, and when a complete clinical report is generated.

Ordering Doctor

The doctor who ordered the test for the patient. This doctor who may also be the admitting doctor receives the original clinical report.

Organism Decision Support

A facility can choose to set up the criteria to use this feature, or choose not to

use it. Organism Decision Support is based on biochemical testing.

 

When the laboratory technologist or microbiologist tentatively identifies the organism that is growing in the culture and the facility chooses to use the Decision Support feature, the feature is available to confirm the identification.

Organism ID

A unique code limited to three alphanumeric characters that is assigned to an organism or other microbiology result. Used by technical staff or transmitted from an interfaced microbiology instrument

to report culture results and to provide data for infection control and susceptibility

reports.

 

Examples of the complete name or description of an organism or other microbiology result are: E. coli, normal flora, no enteric pathogens isolated,

no growth at 48 hours.

 

The codes are defined in the Organism/No Growth Codes section of the Microbiology Parameter Maintenance submodule.

Organism Setup ID Code

An alphanumeric code that can indicate the procedure to identify an organism and/or be used to link a Bill-Only Code to the identification procedure so that a charge can be generated for it.

Original Inoculum

A specimen of potentially infected material.

Output

Select whether to display results of a report on the computer screen or to have a printer produce a hard copy.

Overview

A summary of the purpose and functions of a module or submodule in the CyberLAB system.

Overwrite

A button in Edit Instrument Results that allows posted test results to be replaced with currently edited test results.

P

Panel Test

A group of single tests, known as components, that are grouped together for ordering, performing, and reporting purposes. An example is a CBC (Complete Blood Count).

Panic/Critical

An abnormal test result that is beyond the panic/critical value set for a test in the Test Dictionary. For example, if the panic/critical value is set outside 2 and 10, a test result of 1 triggers a Very Low (VL) flag, and a test result of 13 triggers a Very High (VH) flag.  Also see, Test Result Ranges.

Parameter

A term used in the CyberLAB system, especially in the File Maintenance module, to indicate items that a facility can define as constants, specifications, or as a criterion.

Password

A code associated with a User ID that allows access to an application. The user creates a password based on criteria set by the system administrator, such as the minimum length of the code and the number of numerals, capital letters, and lowercase letters.

Patient ID

A unique code, such as a Medical Record Number, that is assigned to a patient in the CyberLAB system. The facility assigns the code when the patient enters for a visit, or the code can be transmitted from the HIS/CIS.

 

The Patient ID allows multiple sample orders to be grouped under one patient's medical record.

Patient Type

A classification for a patient that can be used for Medical Necessity Validation rules. The types include: Inpatient, Outpatient, Emergency, Clinic, STAT, Referred, and Other.

Pending Work Report

A report that lists work yet to be performed.

Physician

See Client.

PMS (Physicians Management System)

A doctor's individual computer system.

Point-of-Care Module

Captures the Point-of-Care (POC) order/result data from handheld devices or data entered manually via the POC module. Ensures a more complete patient medical record. Captures charges that might otherwise be lost.

Pointer

A movable cue that marks a position on a screen. It usually displays as a blinking vertical line.  The next character you enter from the keyboard displays at the pointer's position. See Cursor.

POL (Physician's Office Lab)

A laboratory in a doctor's office.

Populate

A term that refers to fields that are filled with information.

Precision

The number of significant digits to which a value has been reliably measured, and an instrument has been set.

Predefined Comment

A comment that is defined by a facility when the CyberLAB system is implemented. An example is the Comment selection list.  Also referred to as a canned comment (slang).

Predefined Comment as Result

A predefined comment can be entered as a result. The comment result displays as follows: a Comment Code preceded by a hyphen.

Press

Term used in this online documentation to refer to depressing a key on the keyboard, such as the Tab key or the Delete key.

Prev (Previous)

A button that enables a user to return to a previously viewed screen.

Primary Care Doctor

The principal doctor of a patient.

Primary Site

The headquarters or main site of a multisite organization.

Printer ID

A code that is assigned to an individual printer at a facility.

Provider

See Client.

Q

QC Dictionary Maintenance

A submodule that specifies the criteria used to test and calibrate laboratory instruments.

QC Known

See Known.

R

Radio Button

Now known as Option button. Used to indicate choices in a dialog box.

Range ID

A code that is commonly used to identify a device, but it can also be set in the Test Dictionary of the CyberLAB system to identify an instrument by location. The Range ID and Device ID often are identical.

Reference Laboratory

A laboratory to which work is sent. The laboratory performs tests not performed within the other medical facilities. These tests are often esoteric or specialized tests, or tests that are not reimbursed when performed in-house, based on the payor.  See Send Out Facility.

Release

When the results of a test are released, the results are immediately available in Patient Inquiry and are posted to the patient's file.

Remark

In the CyberLAB system, the term Remark indicates that the selected predefined comment can have a special significance.

 

For example, on the Media/Smear Tab in the Specimen Workup/Edit submodule of the  Microbiology module, a predefined comment can be controlled by a configurational option and can trigger a Result Response Action.

Report

An account or summary of an activity or operation. An analysis of operations and progress or changes.

Required Entry

The user has to select or enter information in certain text boxes on a screen. The text boxes must be completed before you can exit the screen. See Description of Screen Functions.

Restricted Test

There are two definitions for a restricted test in the CyberLAB system. They are:
 

Result

The conclusion of an alpha or numeric test.

Result Flag

A flag used to indicate the degree or level of a test result, especially an abnormal result. The flags are based on ranges set for each test when it is defined in the Test Dictionary.

Result Mode

Two options that indicate methods to add the result of a culture workup to a sample.

These options are often used when numerous preliminary results are reported.

 

The two options are:

 

Append - Attach the result to the next available workup (isolate) number.

 

Overlay - Replace the previous result of a culture workup with the latest result.

Results Entry

A module in the CyberLAB system in which test results are entered manually or uploaded from an interfaced instrument, reviewed, and posted to the patient's record.

Result Response Rules

Result Response Rules, also known as Result Response Generator (RRG), enables your facility to define rules that trigger a response when a specific test result is entered.

 

S

Sample

A specimen obtained from a patient for a test.  See Specimen.

Sample ID

A unique code assigned to each order of tests for a patient. Also referred to as the accession number.

Sample Type

Refers to the status of the sample. Codes that indicate sample types on orders, such as Routine and STAT, which are provided by Aspyra. All other codes are defined by each facility.

Scheduled Date

A date on which a patient is scheduled to have a test or procedure.

Screen Functions

For a description of CyberLAB functions, see Description of Screen Functions.

Select

A term with two definitions in the CyberLAB system: 1) Double-click in the center of a word or press down the pointer and drag it across a word or phrase to select (highlight) it, and 2) Click an item to choose it on a drop-down list, selection list, or list in a group box.

Selection List

A list that displays to allow a user to make a selection. Formerly known as a pick list.

Send Out Facility

A reference laboratory that performs procedures that are not generally performed in-house. See Reference Laboratory.

Sensitivity/Susceptibility

The reaction of a microorganism to a particular antibiotic. Qualitative results can be reported in MICs (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) or mm (millimeters): the size of the zone around a disk diffusing antibiotic into the media upon which it placed.

Sensitivity Pattern/Susceptibility Pattern

A group of antibiotics that is used to test the susceptibility of a microorganism to each of the antibiotics in the group based upon the organism identified.

 

Examples are Gram Negative Susceptibilities, Gram Positive Susceptibilities, and Urine Susceptibilities. These can be reported as MICs or via an alternate methodology such as Kirby-Bauer Susceptibility.

Service Code

A billing charge code, such as the host charge code that might be cross-referenced in a billing interface file. The Service Code text box is user defined. It can be a CPT Code, if one code is used for all patient types. It appears on the Send Bill billing invoice or report.

Session Type

A selection, usually on a drop-down list, that determines the principal task of the session. For example, in Single Results Entry, the user can choose to enter live results or enter results that are to be held for review and release by a supervisor.

Setup ID

A unique code, limited to three alphanumeric characters, that is assigned to the organism identification method. Used to select an organism identification method during workup. The Organism Setup ID displays on microbiology work cards and can print on clinical reports.

 

Setup ID is defined in the Organism Setup Identification section of the Microbiology Parameter Maintenance submodule. Examples are: GNI, a Gram negative identification panel; GPI, a Gram positive identification panel; HN1, Haemophilus/Neisseria identification (HNID).

Smear Result

A unique code, usually limited to three-alphanumeric characters, that describes the appearance of organisms in the original inoculum. These codes are used at result entry.

 

Examples could include results for Gram stains (i.e., Few Gram Pos Rods), AFB smears (i.e., No Acid Fast Bacilli Seen or No Organisms Seen), or direct microscopic fungal exams (i.e., Filamentous Mycelial Fragments Present).

Sort Link

An underlined name with small button at left that, when clicked, sorts the selection list based on the criteria you specify.

Specimen

A sample, such as blood or urine, that is obtained from a patient for a test. See Sample.

Standard Deviation

A statistical measure of the variation in the range of values.

Standard Test

A test type that indicates its processing method within the CyberLAB system. Tests that are not standard are: culture, differential, microbiology, panel, and urinalysis.

Start at

A text box in which you can enter partial data to filter the search of a selection list.

STAT

A common medical abbreviation which is used to imply urgent or rush. It is derived from a Latin word statim which means immediately. STAT is a patient type in the CyberLAB system.

Submodule

One of a number of secondary modules that appear within a primary module for a particular topic. For example, a submodule in the Results Entry module is Single Result Entry.

System

See CyberLAB system.

System Administrator

The person in a facility who manages the security of an application and user access to it.

System Message

A notice generated by the CyberLAB system. User-defined messages are referred to as comments.

T

Taskbar

The bar that appears by default at the bottom of the screen.

Tech ID

A two-character code assigned to the laboratory technologist or microbiologist who performed the ordered test in the laboratory.

Test Classification

A single character that can be used to categorize a test to prevent or permit user access. Test classification is set up for a test in the Test Dictionary, and access is based on user classification.

Test Code

A four-digit code that your facility assigns to a test in the Test Dictionary. Formerly known as Test or Test Number. The Test Dictionary contains all predefined tests.

Test Dictionary

A dictionary file that contains all the parameters for every test and service performed by the laboratory or sent out to be performed by reference laboratories.

Test Group

The combination of a Test Code and a single, arbitrarily assigned alphanumeric character, known as a subgroup. Test groups are created to specify how results are displayed for editing.

Test Result Ranges

Numeric test ranges in the CyberLAB system are:

 

Normal - A test result that is within the normal range set for a test in the Test Dictionary. For example, if a normal range is set between 4 and 8, a test result of 5 is normal,  and no flag displays.

 

Abnormal - There are two categories of abnormal test results:

 

Low/High - A test result that is between normal and panic/critical values. For example, if the normal range is between 4 and 8 and panic/critical is between 2 and 10, a test result of 3 triggers a Low (L) flag, and a test result of 9 triggers a High (H) flag.

 

Panic/Critical - A test result that is beyond panic/critical. For example, if panic/critical is set between 2 and 10, a test result of 1 triggers a Very Low (VL) flag, and a test result of 13 triggers a Very High (VH) flag.

 

Erroneous - A test result that is absurd and probably repeated or deleted. For example, if the erroneous range is set between 0 and 15, an erroneous result can be 0 or 30.

 

Extended Range - Used to define 84 different ranges based on age, sex, species, and the instrument and location in which the test was performed.

Test Type

The type of test indicates its processing method within the CyberLAB system. Test types are culture, differential, microbiology, panel, standard, and urinalysis.

Text Box

A rectangular-shaped box of any size at the right of a text box label. Information can be entered or stored in the text box. See Description of Screen Functions.

Text Box Label

A text statement to the left of a text box. The statement indicates the response to enter in the text box. See Description of Screen Functions.

Time

Time text boxes in the CyberLAB system display the time of day in 24-hour cycles, also known as military time.

Trainer

Slang. Referred to as implementation specialists at Aspyra.

Tray/Cup

A system that is used to identify a tray and the position of specimens on the tray when samples are processed by an instrument.

Turnaround Time

A specified length of time that occurs between the start and finish of a test. A facility can generate a variety of Turnaround Time (TAT) reports that allow the lab manager to identify areas within the lab that require improvement.

U

Uncollected

An order in which the sample has not been obtained from the patient.

Unidirectional Instrument Interface

Transmission of results from an interfaced instrument occurs in one direction, from the instrument to the CyberLAB system.

UNIX

A trademark, registered by The Open Group, is used for a computer disk operating system. The CyberLAB system operates on a UNIX system.

Urinalysis

Analysis of urine by automated, interfaced instruments are received in the CyberLAB system. The results can be modified or edited in the Urinalysis Results Entry submodule.

User Classification

To restrict access to the application and its modules, each facility defines the characteristics of a password and the classification of users based on job responsibilities.

A code, called a Class ID, is assigned to each classification of users.

This includes function-specific accessibility that defines the specific modules, submodules, and functions an individual user in a user classification can access to perform job-required tasks.

User ID

A code that identifies a user after he or she has been authorized to access and work in the CyberLAB system. The authorization and User ID are defined by the system administrator.

V

Verified

To verify a result, which creates a verified comment on the clinical report for this sample. The entry is generally used when the test is repeated and confirms the first result. However, verify can be used for the original result entry if the result is known to be accurate.

Violation Flag

An indication that a Westgard Rule has been violated.

Visit ID

A unique code that identifies a particular patient visit or encounter. The Visit ID also is known as Chart ID, Admit ID, or Admission Number.

W

WebGateway

An Aspyra module that allows users to access and perform order entry, results retrieval, and specimen requirements functionality for CyberLAB data. Access can be configured over a public (Internet) network or a private (intranet) network.

Westgard Rules

A multirule, quality control procedure used to judge the acceptability of a quality control test.

Work Card

An electronic form used in the Microbiology module of the CyberLAB system to document microbiology processes and test results.

Worksheet

A list of individual tests to be performed by a laboratory technologist.

Workup

The diagnostic procedure used to identify each individual isolate or reportable entity (Normal Flora; No Growth) of one culture specimen. Each workup is assigned an internal number.

X

Y

Z