Auto-calculate results with Test Formula

A formula tells E-Lab how to work out one test from the results of other tests. The calculated test must already exist in Test Master, and it should have no Default Value. Use only formulas your pathologist has approved.

On this screen

1. Group loads that group's tests
2. Test Name the test to calculate
3. Formula Expression test names in curly brackets, with signs
4. testname double-click a test to add it to the expression
5. Include This Value adds the number typed in the box beside it
6. + - x / ( ) Power add a sign to the expression
7. BUN double-click a saved formula to change it
8. Update saves changes to the loaded formula

Create a formula

1. Pick the group
   In Group, pick the group and press Enter. Its tests load into the list on the left and into Test Name.
2. Pick the test to calculate
   In Test Name, pick it and press Enter. If it has a formula already, the formula loads and the button reads Update.
3. Build the expression
   Double-click a test in the left list to add it to Formula Expression as {Test Name}. Use the buttons +, -, x, /, (, ) and Power. For a fixed number, type it in the value box and click Include This Value.
4. Save
   Click Save (Alt+S). If the test already has a formula, E-Lab asks whether to overwrite it. Only Yes saves.
5. Check on a test entry
   Open a test report, enter the input results, then step into the calculated cell. Compare the number with a hand calculation.

Example: Globulin = {Total Protein}-{Albumin}. A/G Ratio = {Albumin}/{Globulin}. Use your own test names.

How it behaves in Test Report

• It runs when you step into the Result cell of the calculated test, and only if that cell is empty.
• Each name in braces must match a test on the same report exactly, and that test's group must be ticked on the screen.
• If any input is blank or is not a number, the calculated cell stays empty. You get no wrong number.
• The answer is rounded to 3 decimals.
• One formula can use another calculated result, such as A/G after Globulin, once that cell is filled.

Questions people ask