Bilirubin Measurement Tools: A Clinical Overview


Intro
Bilirubin assessment plays a crucial role in clinical diagnostics. It is significant for evaluating liver function, monitoring hemolytic disorders, and assessing neonatal jaundice. The understanding of bilirubin levels is vital for accurate patient evaluation and treatment planning.
In clinical practice, various tools are utilized to measure and analyze bilirubin levels effectively. The advancements in technology have led to more accurate and efficient means of measurement, enhancing patient outcomes. This article will delve into these tools, discussing their functionalities, applications, and the implications of bilirubin levels on patient care.
Summary of Objectives
This article explores the various tools and methodologies utilized for bilirubin measurement and analysis in clinical settings. The focus is on enhancing understanding among researchers and practitioners regarding the effectiveness and relevance of these tools in modern medicine.
Importance of the Research
Bilirubin levels provide insights into multiple health issues. By comprehensively examining the tools available for measuring bilirubin, this research aims to streamline clinical practices, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.
Results and Discussion
Presentation of Findings
The study identifies several key tools used in bilirubin assessment:
- Serum Bilirubin Tests: Traditional testing methods remain widely used in clinical laboratories, offering reliable measures of total and direct bilirubin levels.
- Transcutaneous Bilirubin Meters: These non-invasive devices have gained popularity for their convenience and ability to provide immediate results, particularly in neonatal care.
- Point-of-Care Devices: Emerging technologies enable rapid assessments, promoting quicker clinical decisions.
Each tool has specific applications, strengths, and limitations. Understanding these facets is essential to selecting the appropriate method according to clinical needs.
Implications of Results
The outcomes of bilirubin assessments can significantly impact clinical decision-making. For instance, timely detection of elevated bilirubin levels can facilitate early interventions in conditions like neonatal jaundice. Effective bilirubin management, therefore, correlates with enhanced patient prognoses and reduced healthcare costs.
In summary, understanding the tools and methodologies for bilirubin assessment is imperative for professional practice. The integration of reliable and advanced measurement tools will lead to improved patient outcomes and more effective clinical pathways.
Foreword to Bilirubin and Its Importance
Understanding bilirubin is crucial in clinical practice, as it serves as a key biomarker for a variety of medical conditions. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the body during the breakdown of red blood cells. It is significant not just for its role in liver health but also in diagnosing hematological disorders and monitoring various physiological states. This section will establish the foundation for comprehending the subsequent discussions on bilirubin measurement tools.
Definition of Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a product formed from the degradation of hemoglobin when red blood cells undergo recycling. The liver processes bilirubin, converting it into a form that the body can eliminate. Two main types of bilirubin exist: unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct). Unconjugated bilirubin is lipid-soluble, while conjugated bilirubin is water-soluble, making it easier to excrete through bile.
The classification into these two types is important for understanding their implications in diagnosis and treatment. The measurement of total bilirubin includes both forms, while separate tests can assess direct and indirect levels.
Role in Hematology
Bilirubin plays a vital role in hematology. Abnormal levels of bilirubin can indicate underlying hematological conditions, such as hemolytic anemia or certain types of liver diseases. In healthy individuals, bilirubin levels remain within a normal range, typically below 1.2 mg/dL. However, significant deviations can signal that further investigation is needed. Clinicians often observe bilirubin levels in conjunction with other parameters, such as hemoglobin and hematocrit, to gain a comprehensive view of a patientβs health.
Factors influencing bilirubin levels include:
- Increased Red Blood Cell Destruction: Conditions that escalate hemolysis can raise bilirubin levels.
- Liver Function: Impaired liver function reduces the organ's ability to conjugate bilirubin, affecting levels in the blood.
- Biliary Obstruction: Blockages in bile ducts inhibit bilirubin flow, leading to increased levels in the bloodstream.
Clinical Significance
The clinical significance of bilirubin monitoring cannot be overstated. Elevated bilirubin can cause jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, which is often the first visible symptom to prompt medical evaluation. Monitoring helps in identifying liver dysfunction, hemolytic disorders, and the effectiveness of treatment protocols.
A timely assessment can influence patient outcomes significantly. For example, in cases of newborns, monitoring bilirubin is critical to detecting neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. Failure to identify and treat high bilirubin levels can lead to serious complications such as kernicterus, which can cause permanent neurological damage.
"Early diagnosis and intervention can greatly enhance patient outcomes in conditions associated with abnormal bilirubin levels."
With the provided understanding of bilirubinβs role and significance, it sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the tools available for measurement and analysis in medical settings.
Overview of Bilirubin Measurement Tools
Understanding the measurement of bilirubin is crucial in clinical practice. Bilirubin, a product of the breakdown of hemoglobin, plays a significant role in diagnosing various medical conditions. Accurately measuring bilirubin levels allows healthcare professionals to assess liver function, diagnose jaundice, and monitor hemolytic diseases.
The tools used for measuring bilirubin can broadly be divided into traditional methods, emerging technologies, and non-invasive options. Each approach has unique benefits and considerations that influence both accuracy and practicality in clinical environments.
Traditional Methods
Traditional methods of bilirubin measurement typically involve laboratory analysis of blood samples. The most commonly used techniques are the diazo method and spectrophotometry. With the diazo method, serum or plasma is mixed with a diazo reagent that reacts to form colored complexes, which can be quantitatively measured.
Benefits of Traditional Methods:
- Established Protocols: These methods have a long-standing history in clinical use, and protocols are well-documented.
- Comprehensive Analysis: They can measure both total and direct bilirubin, providing a full picture of liver function.
However, traditional methods require skilled personnel and extensive laboratory infrastructure. Moreover, they can take longer to process, which delays clinical decisions.
Emerging Technologies


Emerging technologies in bilirubin measurement aim to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Techniques such as microfluidics and advanced spectroscopic methods are gaining traction. Microfluidics utilize small volumes of fluids in a compact system, allowing rapid analysis with minimal sample size.
Advantages of Emerging Technologies:
- Speed: Increased speed of results can lead to quicker decision-making in acute care situations.
- Precision: Innovations in spectroscopy can lead to higher precision in bilirubin quantification.
However, these technologies may not be widely available yet, and some require significant investment in equipment.
Non-invasive Measurement Tools
Non-invasive tools, such as transcutaneous bilirubinometers, offer quick assessment methods. These devices estimate bilirubin levels by measuring skin reflectance properties. They are especially useful in neonatal care for assessing jaundice without the need for blood draws.
Key Features of Non-invasive Tools:
- Patient Comfort: Minimizing the need for needle sticks is particularly beneficial for neonates and reduces distress.
- Rapid Assessments: Results can be obtained within seconds, aiding in urgent clinical situations.
Despite their benefits, non-invasive tools may have limitations in accuracy, particularly in patients with darker skin tones. As such, they may be best used as screening tools rather than definitive measures.
"Innovative bilirubin measurement tools are essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. Their integration into clinical practice can significantly impact patient outcomes."
Analyzing Bilirubin Levels: Interpretation and Implications
Bilirubin levels are crucial indicators of health, reflecting the bodyβs metabolism and liver function. Understanding how to interpret these levels can provide valuable insights into a patient's health status. Analyzing bilirubin levels involves distinguishing between various forms of bilirubin, recognizing influencing factors, and linking abnormal levels to specific clinical conditions.
Total Bilirubin vs. Direct Bilirubin
Total bilirubin comprises both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin.
- Direct bilirubin is water-soluble and primarily excreted through bile. High levels may indicate liver disease or biliary obstructions, suggesting issues with bilirubin processing.
- Total bilirubin combines both fractions, providing a broader perspective. Elevated total bilirubin can occur due to increased production, decreased clearance, or increased conjugation.
Analyzing the ratio and levels of these forms offers insights into underlying conditions. For instance, if direct bilirubin is high, this often points to hepatobiliary disorders, while high indirect bilirubin can signify hemolysis or similar issues. This differentiation is crucial for clinicians aiming to diagnose effectively.
Factors Influencing Bilirubin Levels
Bilirubin levels are not static; they vary due to several internal and external factors:
- Age: Neonates often exhibit higher bilirubin levels due to immature liver function, resulting in physiological jaundice.
- Medication: Certain drugs, such as rifampicin and anabolic steroids, can affect bilirubin metabolism.
- Diet: High intake of certain foods can influence bilirubin levels. For example, fasting can decrease bilirubin clearance, leading to transient elevations.
- Genetics: Genetic predispositions, such as Gilbertβs syndrome, can affect the conjugation of bilirubin, resulting in elevated indirect bilirubin.
Awareness of these factors is necessary for clinicians to interpret bilirubin levels accurately. Changes in levels must be contextualized within the broader framework of the patient's clinical history and current health status.
Clinical Conditions Associated with Abnormal Levels
Abnormal bilirubin levels can signal various pathological conditions, necessitating careful evaluation. Some of these conditions include:
- Liver Disease: Elevated direct bilirubin may indicate conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or tumors. An impaired liver can lead to accumulation, which is critical for diagnosis.
- Hemolytic Anemias: Conditions that cause rapid breakdown of red blood cells often lead to increased indirect bilirubin, suggesting hemolysis. Examples include sickle cell disease and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
- Biliary Obstruction: Conditions such as gallstones can obstruct bile flow, resulting in increased direct bilirubin levels, often leading to jaundice and dark urine.
Recognizing these associations is vital for timely and accurate diagnosis. Clinicians can tailor their approach based on bilirubin analysis and apply appropriate interventions.
Understanding bilirubin levels is fundamental for establishing effective treatment protocols and improving patient outcomes.
Bilirubin Tools in Neonatal Care
Bilirubin assessment plays a critical role in the management of neonatal care. This topic is essential for addressing one of the most common complications observed in newborns: hyperbilirubinemia. Understanding the tools available for measuring bilirubin levels can greatly enhance clinical practice and improve infant outcomes. Advances in technology have made these tools not only more accurate but also more accessible, facilitating early detection and timely intervention.
Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia
Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia occurs when there is an excess of bilirubin in a newborn's bloodstream. It is often evidenced by the yellowing of the skin and the sclera, a condition known as jaundice. Hyperbilirubinemia is quite common in newborns, with varying degrees of severity.
Key factors contributing to this condition include:
- Physiological processes: Newborns have immature liver function, which can affect bilirubin processing.
- Hemolytic disorders: Conditions like Rh incompatibility can lead to increased breakdown of red blood cells.
- Genetic factors: Certain inherited conditions can impact bilirubin metabolism, raising levels.
Understanding the underlying causes is vital for selecting appropriate treatment options and avoiding complications such as kernicterus, a serious neurological condition.
Screening Protocols
Screening for hyperbilirubinemia is essential for timely diagnosis and management. Current guidelines recommend routine assessment of bilirubin levels for all newborns. This can be conducted using various methods such as visual assessment or transcutaneous bilirubin meters. However, serum bilirubin measurements provide the most reliable results.
The screening process typically includes:
- Initial assessment: Checking bilirubin levels in the first 24 hours of life.
- Follow-up screenings: Repeated assessments based on risk factors, such as gestational age and family history.
- Integration with clinical judgment: Clinicians should interpret results considering the overall clinical picture.
Regular screening not only aids in identifying newborns at risk but also helps in implementing preventive measures efficiently.
Treatment Implications
The implications of bilirubin measurement in neonatal care are significant. Treatment for elevated bilirubin levels can vary, depending on the severity and underlying cause of hyperbilirubinemia. The primary line of treatment is phototherapy, which utilizes light to help break down bilirubin in the skin.


Other treatment options may include:
- Exchange transfusion: This procedure is typically used in severe cases where bilirubin levels rise dangerously high.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG): This is administered in cases of hemolytic jaundice to reduce bilirubin levels rapidly.
Ongoing monitoring is critical during treatment to ensure efficacy and prevent potential complications. An effective treatment plan and timely intervention can significantly reduce the risk of long-term neurological damage in affected newborns.
In summary, the advantages of utilizing bilirubin tools in neonatal care encompass accurate diagnosis, effective treatment options, and proactive management strategies, all essential for safeguarding the health of vulnerable populations like newborns.
Bilirubin Measurement in Adults: Clinical Applications
The measurement of bilirubin in adults plays a significant role in clinical practice. Understanding bilirubin levels can provide valuable insights into various health conditions and guide treatment decisions. The assessment of bilirubin levels is crucial, as it allows healthcare professionals to evaluate liver function, monitor hematologic disorders, and inform treatment courses. By discerning the complexities involved, practitioners can enhance patient care and outcomes.
Assessment of Liver Function
Bilirubin measurement is pivotal in assessing liver function. The liver is responsible for processing bilirubin, a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction, biliary obstruction, or hemolytic anemias.
A routine bilirubin test typically measures both total and direct (conjugated) bilirubin. High levels of direct bilirubin often suggest liver cell damage or cholestasis, while high indirect bilirubin may indicate increased hemolysis.
Key points include:
- Liver Function Tests: Bilirubin levels are part of a broader panel of liver function tests, which provide a comprehensive view of hepatic health.
- Diagnostic Clarity: These measurements help clarify the underlying causes of jaundice, guiding further investigation into liver pathology.
- Regular Monitoring: For patients with known liver disease, regular bilirubin monitoring is essential to evaluate disease progression or treatment response.
Monitoring Hematologic Disorders
The role of bilirubin measurement extends to hematologic disorders where hemolysis is a factor. Conditions such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia can lead to increased bilirubin production due to the destruction of red blood cells.
In these cases, elevated bilirubin serves as an indirect marker of disease activity. Effective monitoring can be crucial for:
- Identifying Hemolysis: Understanding the extent of hemolytic activity can aid clinicians in adjusting treatment plans efficiently.
- Treatment Response: Tracking bilirubin reductions can indicate how well the patient is responding to provided therapies such as blood transfusions or medications.
Guidance for Treatment Decisions
Finally, bilirubin levels play a crucial role in guiding treatment decisions across various clinical scenarios. When faced with elevated bilirubin, healthcare professionals can evaluate possible etiologies and tailor interventions accordingly.
The implications include:
- Therapeutic Interventions: Abnormal bilirubin levels may necessitate adjustments in medications, such as the discontinuation of hepatotoxic drugs.
- Surgical Considerations: In cases of obstructive jaundice, decision-making regarding surgical intervention can depend on bilirubin test results.
- Long-Term Management: Elevated bilirubin may require implementing lifestyle changes or increased monitoring to prevent complications.
In summary, bilirubin measurement in adults is an essential tool in clinical practice, offering insights into liver function, hematological disorders, and guiding treatment protocols. By closely monitoring these levels, healthcare providers can ensure timely and effective patient care.
Comparative Analysis of Bilirubin Tools
The comparative analysis of bilirubin tools is crucial in evaluating their efficiency, effectiveness, and overall utility in clinical practice. Various devices and methods exist for measuring bilirubin levels, each with unique benefits and limitations. Understanding these elements helps clinicians select the most appropriate tool for patient assessment, ultimately impacting diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Accuracy and Reliability
Accuracy and reliability are paramount when considering bilirubin measurement tools. Reliable instruments produce consistent results across different clinical settings. For example, laboratory-based methods, like spectrophotometry, are known for precise bilirubin quantification. Meanwhile, point-of-care devices have improved in recent years, but variations in results can occur depending on user technique and calibration.
Factors impacting accuracy include:
- Calibration methods: Instruments that require frequent calibration may show variability in results.
- Sample handling: Pre-analytical conditions like sample time and processing can influence outcomes.
- Technology used: Emerging technologies often promise better precision, but must be validated by clinical trials.
The reliability of tools fosters trust among healthcare providers, which is essential for maintaining patient safety. Any tool used must undergo rigorous validation to ensure its clinical usefulness.
Cost-effectiveness
Cost-effectiveness is another critical aspect in the evaluation of bilirubin measurement tools. While some traditional methods are established as reliable, they may incur high costs for equipment and maintenance. For instance, high-end laboratory machines often possess advanced functionality, but their initial investments and operating costs can be significant.
On the other hand, non-invasive technologies, like transcutaneous bilirubinometers, present an attractive alternative. These methods are generally less expensive and improve access to bilirubin monitoring, especially in settings with limited resources. However, it is important to evaluate:
- Initial cost: Equipment purchase price should be weighed against its lifespan and maintenance expenses.
- Training expenses: Some tools may require extensive training for staff, increasing overall costs.
- Patient care costs: Reducing the need for multiple invasive tests can lower total patient care expenses.
User Experience and Accessibility
User experience and accessibility are vital for the successful implementation of any biliruibin measurement tool. Tools that are easy to operate can lead to better adoption rates among healthcare professionals.
- Ease of use: Devices designed with simple interfaces lower the chances of user error.
- Portable devices: Tools that can be used point-of-care improve access, especially in remote or underserved areas.
- Training: Comprehensive training materials and support increase user confidence and competence.
Furthermore, allowing easy integration with existing electronic health record systems supports healthcare providers in managing patient data more effectively. By considering user experience and accessibility, healthcare systems can ensure that their chosen measurement tools positively impact patient care while enhancing workflow efficiency.
The selection of bilirubin measurement tools is not solely about acquisition costs but includes long-term benefits for patient management and clinical outcomes.
Integration of Bilirubin Tools in Laboratory Practices
Laboratory practices play a crucial role in the accurate measurement and analysis of bilirubin levels, which is essential for clinical decision-making. The integration of bilirubin tools into laboratory workflows enhances the efficiency and reliability of diagnostic testing. This integration encompasses several elements, including standard operating procedures, quality control measures, and effective data management and reporting systems. Each component contributes significantly to the overall success of bilirubin assessment in clinical contexts.


Standard Operating Procedures
Implementing clear and detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) is vital for achieving consistency and accuracy in bilirubin measurement. SOPs outline the step-by-step methods for sample collection, processing, and analysis. This ensures that all personnel adhere to the same protocols, reducing variability in results.
An SOP should include:
- Sample Handling: Guidance on proper collection techniques and storage conditions to preserve bilirubin integrity.
- Analytical Methodology: Detailed descriptions of the analytical techniques employed, such as colorimetric methods or advanced technologies like high-performance liquid chromatography.
- Calibration and Maintenance: Regular calibration protocols for equipment and guidelines for maintenance schedules to guarantee operational reliability.
By standardizing these procedures, laboratories can minimize errors and improve the validity of test results.
Quality Control Measures
Quality control measures are indispensable for monitoring the performance of bilirubin measurement tools. This involves a systematic approach to assess both the accuracy and precision of results over time. Quality controls can include the use of control samples that mimic patient samples, thus allowing laboratories to verify that their testing methods yield reliable results.
Important aspects of quality control include:
- Routine Calibration: Performing regular calibrations ensures equipment functions within specified limits.
- Control Charts: Utilizing control charts helps visualize data trends, allowing detection of potential shifts in performance.
- Training and Competency Assessments: Ongoing training for laboratory staff is crucial to maintain their skills and knowledge about current practices and technologies.
The commitment to quality control not only enhances the credibility of results but also assures healthcare practitioners of the reliability of the assessments.
Data Management and Reporting
Finally, effective data management and reporting systems are critical elements in the integration of bilirubin tools. These systems should be capable of tracking patient results and ensuring that data is collected, analyzed, and reported in a timely manner. A well-implemented data management system allows for the seamless flow of information across various departments, enhancing communication and facilitating clinical decisions.
Key components of data management include:
- Electronic Health Record Integration: Linking bilirubin results directly to patient records streamlines access and promotes better patient outcomes.
- Automated Reporting: Implementing automated reporting systems ensures that results are communicated quickly to clinicians, minimizing delays in treatment.
- Data Security: Prioritizing data security is essential, as patient information must be protected against unauthorized access or breaches.
Effective data management not only improves operational efficiencies but also enhances patient safety by ensuring accurate and timely access to essential clinical information.
Bilirubin Tools: Challenges and Limitations
Bilirubin tools are essential for monitoring and diagnosing various clinical conditions. However, they are not without challenges and limitations. This section explores technical difficulties, the issue of patient variability and ethics, and potential future improvements. Understanding these challenges helps in refining practices and enhancing outcomes.
Technical Challenges
The reliability of bilirubin measurements is significantly impacted by several technical challenges. First, variations in calibration methods can lead to discrepancies in results. Each device might have different calibration procedures. This inconsistency can confuse clinicians and hinder accurate diagnosis.
Moreover, interferences from other substances in the samples can skew readings. Certain medications and hemolysis, for example, can alter bilirubin levels. Using standardized protocols is crucial to minimize these interferences. Technological advancements may help, but the existing devices need diligent operation and maintenance to ensure consistent outputs.
Another issue is the need for trained personnel to operate sophisticated bilirubin tools. While automation simplifies some processes, human oversight remains essential for interpreting results accurately. Staff training is necessary to maximize the tools' effectiveness and maintain quality control in the laboratory.
Patient Variability and Ethics
Variability among patients adds another layer of complexity to bilirubin testing. Factors such as age, sex, genetics, and underlying health conditions can affect bilirubin levels. For instance, newborns may exhibit higher bilirubin concentrations due to immature liver function. This variability necessitates personalized interpretation of results, as a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective.
Ethical considerations also emerge, particularly in vulnerable populations. Informed consent for bilirubin testing should be forefront in practice. Patients must understand the implications of tests, especially when results indicate serious health issues. Ethical dilemmas can arise when results are ambiguous, and sensitive communication becomes essential to navigate these discussions.
Future Directions and Improvements
To address the aforementioned challenges, future developments in bilirubin tools should focus on enhancing accuracy and reducing variability. One promising avenue is the integration of advanced algorithms in bilirubin measurement systems. These algorithms could analyze various data points to deliver more personalized insights.
Additionally, ongoing research is vital to identify new biomarkers or methods for assessing bilirubin levels. Non-invasive techniques, such as transcutaneous bilirubinometry, offer potential alternatives, but they require extensive validation across diverse populations.
Furthermore, investing in education and training for healthcare providers ensures that they are equipped to use these tools effectively. Continuous professional development can help clinicians stay abreast of advancements in bilirubin technology and testing protocols. By fostering an environment of learning and adaptability, the medical community can better tackle the challenges related to bilirubin measurement.
"Understanding the technical challenges, patient variability, and ethical considerations surrounding bilirubin tools is fundamental for improving clinical outcomes in patient care."
Epilogue: The Future of Bilirubin Measurement Tools
The evolution of bilirubin measurement tools is both significant and necessary. With ongoing advancements in diagnostic technologies, the future holds promise for enhanced accuracy and accessibility. The integration of novel measurement techniques, especially non-invasive methods, can fundamentally reshape clinical practices. These innovations can result in quicker diagnoses and improved patient outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the implications that these advancements will have on overall healthcare delivery.
Summary of Key Findings
Bilirubin measurement tools are vital in clinical settings, influencing diagnostics and treatment. A few prominent findings include:
- Diverse methodologies: Various traditional and emerging technologies provide options for bilirubin testing.
- Limitations in existing tools: Traditional methods might face reliability issues. There is a pressing need for better systems.
- Technological advancements: Non-invasive tools promise to enhance patient comfort and reduce errors.
- Impact on patient care: As tools improve, early detection of conditions linked to bilirubin levels becomes more feasible.
These findings underscore the dynamic relationship between clinical practice and the tools used for bilirubin measurement.
Implications for Clinical Practice
The implications of advanced bilirubin measurement tools on clinical practice are multifaceted:
- Improved Patient Care: Enhanced accuracy can lead to better diagnosis of liver and hematologic conditions.
- Efficiency: With quicker results from non-invasive measuring techniques, clinicians can make prompt treatment decisions.
- Cost-effectiveness: Reducing the need for invasive procedures lowers overall healthcare costs.
- Training at the Forefront: As new technology emerges, ongoing training is essential for healthcare practitioners to utilize these tools effectively.
By understanding these implications, practitioners can adapt to improved methodologies that benefit patient outcomes.
Call for Ongoing Research
To fully realize the potential of bilirubin measurement tools, ongoing research is essential. Key areas to explore include:
- Algorithm Development: Improved algorithms for analyzing bilirubin data could enhance diagnostic accuracy.
- Longitudinal Studies: Research examining the long-term impacts of advanced tools on patient management could provide invaluable insights.
- Cost-benefit Analysis: Understanding the economic implications of transitioning to advanced technologies can guide future decisions in healthcare settings.