Chest radiographs (“X-rays”, CXRs) are not indicated for routine assessment of critically-ill patients except following specific procedures (e.g., endotracheal tube, naso- or orogastric tube, central vein catheter, or other procedure requiring verification after insertion), or to provide information for a specific question related to a change in patient’s clinical condition. This includes during cases of suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Blood tests should be ordered to monitor a specific clinical condition, or to answer a specific clinical question. At a minimum, the need for recurring or repetitive blood tests should be reassessed daily.
Sources:
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Routine Blood Tests for Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: Clinical Effectiveness, Cost-Effectiveness, and Guidelines. CADTH. August 16, 2013