It is not in the scope of practice for a registered nurse to make a medical diagnosis based on interpretation of diagnostic test results. Medical test results must be interpreted by an authorized health care practitioner. The nursing laws and rules do not prohibit the registered nurse from relaying test results or a medical diagnosis if already made by an authorized health care practitioner. It is important to consider what types of questions or discussion the patient might have when receiving test results or when a diagnosis is relayed to the patient by the nurse. Abnormal test results should be communicated by someone who can provide supporting information about the test, implications, and follow-up care. The complexity and seriousness of the test results may also determine who gives the results and by what method test results should be given. The person giving the test results or diagnosis must be competent to answer the patient’s questions.