Unit 14 – Physiological Disorders and Care
Assignment One – LAB: Examine the investigation
and diagnosis of physiological disorders
Date: 24/02/2024
Content:
Page 2 - 3: B.P2 – Compare the investigative and diagnostic procedures for different
physiological disorders
Page 4- 5: B.M2 – Assess the important of specific procedures in confirming the diagnosis
of physiological disorders
Page: 6 - 7: BC.D2 – Justify the potential benefits of different investigations and treatment
options for service users diagnosed with physiological disorders
Page 8 - 9: Bibliography
, P2 – Compare the investigative and diagnostic
procedures for different physiological disorders
Case Study 1 – Iron Deficiency Anaemia
For iron deficiency anaemia, the diagnostic procedures are quite straightforward - it is led by
the service user’s GP. At the initial appointment, the service user is asked about their lifestyle
and medical history in order to find the cause. (NHS, 2024) This can be asking about eating
habits, family history, menstruation if the service user is a woman, and other chronic
conditions they may have. (Better Health Channel, 2022)
Following this, the GP orders a full count blood test (FBC) which looks for the number of red
blood cells in their blood and its colour and size (those with iron deficiency have paler
blood); these are called haematocrit and haemoglobin tests, but a ferritin test is also done
which looks for the level of ferritin (a protein that helps store iron in the body). Additionally,
the blood test will look for other potential deficiencies alongside iron deficiency (such as
folate or vitamin B12 deficiency). (NHS, 2024) They may also complete a physical
examination which is an overall evaluation of the service user’s health. (Better Health
Channel, 2022) Some additional tests include an endoscopy, colonoscopy, and ultrasound (for
women). The endoscopy looks for bleeding from a hiatal hernia (when the stomach pushes
past the diaphragm), the colonoscopy is to rule out lower intestinal bleeding, and the pelvic
ultrasound is to ensure that the cause is not excessive menstrual bleeding. (Mayo Clinic,
2022)
Case Study 2 – Cirrhosis
The service user, if suspected of having Cirrhosis, would have a consultation with their GP.
They would be questioned on their medical history as well as having a physical examination
and blood tests, scans, and a liver biopsy. (NHS, 2020) They will be highly likely to ask
about drinking habits (if the patient is a heavy drinker or if they have never touched alcohol)
and may ask about any history of hepatitis. (P.Vincent and T.Hazell, 2023)
The blood tests that are ordered will look for signs of liver malfunction – this can include
high levels of bilirubin (a substance that helps to break down old red blood cells) and some
enzymes. (Medline, 2022) The service user’s blood count is also looked into, along. with a
screening for hepatitis. The GP can also order imaging tests which look for the hardening or
stiffening of the liver. They include Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRSE), MRI, CT, or
ultrasound scans. Finally, a biopsy of the liver is completed where a sample of the service
user’s liver tissue is extracted and taken under a microscope to determine the severity of the
condition, although it may not always be done. (Mayo Clinic, 2023)
Similarities and Differences:
