Final answer:
The criteria for lab tests are found in laboratory manuals, SOPs at the lab, or guidelines provided by entities such as the CDC. These requirements ensure accurate and reliable scientific research, and are vital for tests ranging from blood analyses to drug development validation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The criteria or requirements for lab tests can often be found within the laboratory manual provided for the course or experiment, or within standard operating procedures (SOPs) that are available at the lab facility. These requirements are essential for ensuring accurate, reliable, and repeatable results in scientific research. For example, a doctor might order a variety of lab tests, such as blood tests, urinalysis, or cultures, to determine what type of infection or other condition may be responsible for a patient's symptoms. Furthermore, certain criteria must be satisfied if a measurement or observation is to be believed. This includes adherence to guidelines, such as the BioSafety Level (BSL) guidelines outlined by the CDC, and the validation requirements during drug discovery and development, which can include bioanalysis and method validation.
When working with biological samples, it is critical to follow precise protocols and procedures, which are often outlined by governing bodies and institutions, and include steps for handling samples, using equipment, and interpreting results. In the context of hypothesis testing, researchers must ensure that their hypothesis meets established scientific criteria before proceeding with their experiments. In clinical laboratories, tests are performed following strict guidelines that allow for accurate measurement of metabolites in plasma, or distinguishing and counting blood cells using automated methods.