Optimization of Laboratory Ordering Practices for Complete Blood Count With Differential.

Objectives: To investigate the utilization of CBC and CBC with differential (CBC w/diff) tests at University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, and to determine if a reduction in CBC w/diff tests could be achieved without negatively impacting patient care.

Methods: The quantity of testing and distribution of repeated tests before, during, and after an educational intervention were compared.

Results: CBC w/diff tests were ordered 10-fold more frequently than CBC tests.