What aspect of test results is crucial in Goal 2?

Timely reporting of critical results is essential because it directly impacts patient safety and outcomes. Critical test results can indicate life-threatening conditions that require immediate intervention. When healthcare providers are notified quickly about these important findings, they can take prompt action to address patient needs, thereby minimizing risks and improving patient care.

This focus on timely communication ensures that patients receive appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays, which can lead to complications or worsening of their condition. Establishing a reliable system for reporting critical results is vital to meet patient safety standards and promote timely clinical decision-making.

While understanding average results, normal ranges, and the frequency of tests performed each has its importance for monitoring health trends and managing overall patient care, they do not have the same immediate and critical implications for patient safety as the timely reporting of results that require urgent attention.