An interesting look at the utility of diagnostic tests in emergency medicine. Click on the link below for a full description of these laws which should be considered by all physicians before ordering tests. Remember this post next time you suggest ‘routine labs’ and a chest x-ray for your work-up.
- The Zeroth Law: there is no such thing as Zero Risk
- First Law: All Tests are Imperfect
- Second Law: Context always trumps the result
- Third Law: Sutton’s Law OR “Go where the money is!”
- Fourth Law: There are thresholds for every test for any disease
- Fifth Law: Senthi’s Law – Prognosticate before you Investigate
- Sixth Law: Routine Tests return Routine Answers
More detail here