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This version of the UK Core is a development copy.
This contains BREAKING CHANGES as a result of the C&TA Sprint 7 Review, and STU2 Sequence ballot reconciliation.
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StructureDefinition UKCore-Observation-Lab

Canonical_URL	Status	Current_Version	Last_Updated	Description
https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/StructureDefinition/UKCore-Observation-Lab	active	2.0.1	2024-07-23	This profile defines the UK constraints and extensions on the International FHIR resource Observation, in order to represent an individual laboratory test and result value. These tests can be grouped together using the UKCore-Observation-Group-Lab profile.

Profile_Purpose
To provide the minimum expectations for each individual laboratory test.

UKCoreObservationLab (Observation)	I		Observation	Element id Observation Short description Measurements and simple assertions Alternate names Vital Signs, Measurement, Results, Tests Definition Measurements and simple assertions made about a patient, device or other subject. Comments Used for simple observations such as device measurements, laboratory atomic results, vital signs, height, weight, smoking status, comments, etc. Other resources are used to provide context for observations such as laboratory reports, etc. Data type Observation Constraints dom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources `contained.contained.empty()` dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated `contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty()` dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource `contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference \| %resource.descendants().as(canonical) \| %resource.descendants().as(uri) \| %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty()` dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management text.`div`.exists() dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label `contained.meta.security.empty()` obs-7: If Observation.code is the same as an Observation.component.code then the value element associated with the code SHALL NOT be present `value.empty() or component.code.where(coding.intersect(%resource.code.coding).exists()).empty()` obs-6: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present `dataAbsentReason.empty() or value.empty()` ukcore-obs-lab-001: Either `value`, `dataAbsentReason` or `note` SHOULD be populated `value.exists() or dataAbsentReason.exists() or note.exists()` Mappings rim: Entity. Role, or Act workflow: Event sct-concept: < 363787002 \|Observable entity\| v2: OBX rim: Observation[classCode=OBS, moodCode=EVN]
id	Σ	0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.id Short description Logical id of this artifact Definition The logical id of the resource, as used in the URL for the resource. Once assigned, this value never changes. Comments The only time that a resource does not have an id is when it is being submitted to the server using a create operation. Data type string
meta	Σ	0..1	Meta	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.meta Short description Metadata about the resource Definition The metadata about the resource. This is content that is maintained by the infrastructure. Changes to the content might not always be associated with version changes to the resource. Data type Meta Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
implicitRules	Σ ?!	0..1	uri	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.implicitRules Short description A set of rules under which this content was created Definition A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc. Comments Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc. Data type uri Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a
language		0..1	codeBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.language Short description Language of the resource content Definition The base language in which the resource is written. Comments Language is provided to support indexing and accessibility (typically, services such as text to speech use the language tag). The html language tag in the narrative applies to the narrative. The language tag on the resource may be used to specify the language of other presentations generated from the data in the resource. Not all the content has to be in the base language. The Resource.language should not be assumed to apply to the narrative automatically. If a language is specified, it should it also be specified on the div element in the html (see rules in HTML5 for information about the relationship between xml:lang and the html lang attribute). Data type code Binding A human language. CommonLanguages (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a
text		0..1	Narrative	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.text Short description Text summary of the resource, for human interpretation Alternate names narrative, html, xhtml, display Definition A human-readable narrative that contains a summary of the resource and can be used to represent the content of the resource to a human. The narrative need not encode all the structured data, but is required to contain sufficient detail to make it "clinically safe" for a human to just read the narrative. Resource definitions may define what content should be represented in the narrative to ensure clinical safety. Comments Contained resources do not have narrative. Resources that are not contained SHOULD have a narrative. In some cases, a resource may only have text with little or no additional discrete data (as long as all minOccurs=1 elements are satisfied). This may be necessary for data from legacy systems where information is captured as a "text blob" or where text is additionally entered raw or narrated and encoded information is added later. Data type Narrative Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A rim: Act.text?
contained		0..*	Resource	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.contained Short description Contained, inline Resources Alternate names inline resources, anonymous resources, contained resources Definition These resources do not have an independent existence apart from the resource that contains them - they cannot be identified independently, and nor can they have their own independent transaction scope. Comments This should never be done when the content can be identified properly, as once identification is lost, it is extremely difficult (and context dependent) to restore it again. Contained resources may have profiles and tags In their meta elements, but SHALL NOT have security labels. Data type Resource Mappings rim: Entity. Role, or Act rim: N/A
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
triggeredByR5	I	0..*	Extension(Complex)	Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5 Short description Triggering observation(s). This is a R5 backport. Alternate names extensions, user content Definition Identifies the observation(s) that triggered the performance of this observation. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension(Complex) Extension URL http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.triggeredBy Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	2..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
observation	I	1..1	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation Short description Triggering observation Alternate names extensions, user content Definition Reference to the triggering observation. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
url		1..1	uriFixed Value	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.url Short description identifies the meaning of the extension Definition Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL. Comments The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension. Data type uri Fixed value observation Mappings rim: N/A
value[x]		1..1		Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.value[x] Short description Triggering observation. Definition A reference to the triggering observation. Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
valueReference			Reference(Observation)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Reference(Observation)
type	I	1..1	ExtensionBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type Short description reflex \| repeat \| re-run Alternate names extensions, user content Definition The type of trigger. Reflex \| Repeat \| Re-run. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Binding http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-triggeredbytype (required) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
url		1..1	uriFixed Value	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.url Short description identifies the meaning of the extension Definition Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL. Comments The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension. Data type uri Fixed value type Mappings rim: N/A
value[x]		1..1		Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.value[x] Short description The type of trigger. Reflex \| Repeat \| Re-run Definition The type of trigger. Reflex \| Repeat \| Re-run Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
valueCode			code	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type code
reason	I	0..1	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason Short description Reason that the observation was triggered Alternate names extensions, user content Definition Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation(s) referenced. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
url		1..1	uriFixed Value	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.url Short description identifies the meaning of the extension Definition Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL. Comments The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension. Data type uri Fixed value reason Mappings rim: N/A
value[x]		1..1		Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.value[x] Short description Reason that the observation was triggered. Definition Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation referenced. Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
valueString			string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type string
url		1..1	uriFixed Value	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.url Short description identifies the meaning of the extension Definition Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL. Comments The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension. Data type uri Fixed value http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.triggeredBy Mappings rim: N/A
value[x]		0..0		There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.value[x] Short description Value of extension Definition Value of extension - must be one of a constrained set of the data types (see Extensibility for a list). Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
bodyStructureR5	I	0..1	Extension(Reference(BodyStructure))	Element id Observation.extension:bodyStructureR5 Short description Observed body structure. This is a R5 backport. Alternate names extensions, user content Definition Indicates the body structure on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site). Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension(Reference(BodyStructure)) Extension URL http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.bodyStructure Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
modifierExtension	?! I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.modifierExtension Short description Extensions that cannot be ignored Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource and that modifies the understanding of the element that contains it and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer is allowed to define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions. Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself). Requirements Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
identifier	Σ	0..*	Identifier	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.identifier Short description Business Identifier for observation Definition A unique identifier assigned to this observation. Requirements Allows observations to be distinguished and referenced. Data type Identifier Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CX / EI (occasionally, more often EI maps to a resource id or a URL) rim: II - The Identifier class is a little looser than the v3 type II because it allows URIs as well as registered OIDs or GUIDs. Also maps to Role[classCode=IDENT] servd: Identifier workflow: Event.identifier w5: FiveWs.identifier v2: OBX.21 For OBX segments from systems without OBX-21 support a combination of ORC/OBR and OBX must be negotiated between trading partners to uniquely identify the OBX segment. Depending on how V2 has been implemented each of these may be an option: 1) OBR-3 + OBX-3 + OBX-4 or 2) OBR-3 + OBR-4 + OBX-3 + OBX-4 or 2) some other way to uniquely ID the OBR/ORC + OBX-3 + OBX-4. rim: id
basedOn	Σ I	0..*	Reference(CarePlan \| DeviceRequest \| ImmunizationRecommendation \| MedicationRequest \| NutritionOrder \| ServiceRequest)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.basedOn Short description Fulfills plan, proposal or order Alternate names Fulfills Definition A plan, proposal or order that is fulfilled in whole or in part by this event. For example, a MedicationRequest may require a patient to have laboratory test performed before it is dispensed. Requirements Allows tracing of authorization for the event and tracking whether proposals/recommendations were acted upon. Comments References SHALL be a reference to an actual FHIR resource, and SHALL be resolveable (allowing for access control, temporary unavailability, etc.). Resolution can be either by retrieval from the URL, or, where applicable by resource type, by treating an absolute reference as a canonical URL and looking it up in a local registry/repository. Data type Reference(CarePlan \| DeviceRequest \| ImmunizationRecommendation \| MedicationRequest \| NutritionOrder \| ServiceRequest) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.basedOn v2: ORC rim: .inboundRelationship[typeCode=COMP].source[moodCode=EVN]
partOf	Σ I	0..*	Reference(MedicationAdministration \| MedicationDispense \| MedicationStatement \| Procedure \| Immunization \| ImagingStudy)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.partOf Short description Part of referenced event Alternate names Container Definition A larger event of which this particular Observation is a component or step. For example, an observation as part of a procedure. Comments To link an Observation to an Encounter use `encounter`. See the Notes below for guidance on referencing another Observation. Data type Reference(MedicationAdministration \| MedicationDispense \| MedicationStatement \| Procedure \| Immunization \| ImagingStudy) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.partOf v2: Varies by domain rim: .outboundRelationship[typeCode=FLFS].target
status	S Σ ?!	1..1	codeBinding	Element id Observation.status Short description The status of the result value. Definition The status of the result value. Requirements Need to track the status of individual results. Some results are finalized before the whole report is finalized. Comments This element is labeled as a modifier because the status contains codes that mark the resource as not currently valid. Data type code Binding Codes providing the status of an observation. ObservationStatus (required) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a workflow: Event.status w5: FiveWs.status sct-concept: < 445584004 \|Report by finality status\| v2: OBX-11 rim: status Amended & Final are differentiated by whether it is the subject of a ControlAct event with a type of "revise"
category	S	1..*	CodeableConceptBinding	Element id Observation.category Short description A code that classifies the general type of observation being made. Definition A code that classifies the general type of observation being made. Requirements Used for filtering what observations are retrieved and displayed. Comments In addition to the required category valueset, this element allows various categorization schemes based on the owner’s definition of the category and effectively multiple categories can be used at once. The level of granularity is defined by the category concepts in the value set. Data type CodeableConcept Sliced: Unordered, Open, by coding.code(Value) Binding Codes for high level observation categories. ObservationCategoryCodes (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD w5: FiveWs.class rim: .outboundRelationship[typeCode="COMP].target[classCode="LIST", moodCode="EVN"].code
laboratory	S	1..1	CodeableConceptBinding	Element id Observation.category:laboratory Short description A mandatory code, to identify this observation as being Lab related. Definition A code that classifies the general type of observation being made. Requirements Used for filtering what observations are retrieved and displayed. Comments In addition to the required category valueset, this element allows various categorization schemes based on the owner’s definition of the category and effectively multiple categories can be used at once. The level of granularity is defined by the category concepts in the value set. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes for high level observation categories. ObservationCategoryCodes (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD w5: FiveWs.class rim: .outboundRelationship[typeCode="COMP].target[classCode="LIST", moodCode="EVN"].code
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
coding	Σ	0..*	Coding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding Short description Code defined by a terminology system Definition A reference to a code defined by a terminology system. Requirements Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems. Comments Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true. Data type Coding Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE subset one of the sets of component 1-3 or 4-6 rim: CV orim: fhir:Coding rdfs:subClassOf dt:CDCoding v2: CE.1-8, CE.10-22 rim: union(., ./translation) orim: fhir:CodeableConcept.coding rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CD.coding
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
system	Σ	0..1	uriFixed Value	Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.system Short description Identity of the terminology system Definition The identification of the code system that defines the meaning of the symbol in the code. Requirements Need to be unambiguous about the source of the definition of the symbol. Comments The URI may be an OID (urn:oid:...) or a UUID (urn:uuid:...). OIDs and UUIDs SHALL be references to the HL7 OID registry. Otherwise, the URI should come from HL7's list of FHIR defined special URIs or it should reference to some definition that establishes the system clearly and unambiguously. Data type uri Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Fixed value http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE.3 rim:* ./codeSystem orim: fhir:Coding.system rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.codeSystem
version	Σ	0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.version Short description Version of the system - if relevant Definition The version of the code system which was used when choosing this code. Note that a well-maintained code system does not need the version reported, because the meaning of codes is consistent across versions. However this cannot consistently be assured, and when the meaning is not guaranteed to be consistent, the version SHOULD be exchanged. Comments Where the terminology does not clearly define what string should be used to identify code system versions, the recommendation is to use the date (expressed in FHIR date format) on which that version was officially published as the version date. Data type string Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE.7 rim:* ./codeSystemVersion orim: fhir:Coding.version rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.codeSystemVersion
code	Σ	0..1	codeFixed Value	Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.code Short description Symbol in syntax defined by the system Definition A symbol in syntax defined by the system. The symbol may be a predefined code or an expression in a syntax defined by the coding system (e.g. post-coordination). Requirements Need to refer to a particular code in the system. Comments Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size Data type code Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Fixed value laboratory Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE.1 rim:* ./code orim: fhir:Coding.code rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.code
display	Σ	0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.display Short description Representation defined by the system Definition A representation of the meaning of the code in the system, following the rules of the system. Requirements Need to be able to carry a human-readable meaning of the code for readers that do not know the system. Comments Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size Data type string Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE.2 - but note this is not well followed rim:* CV.displayName orim: fhir:Coding.display rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.displayName
userSelected	Σ	0..1	boolean	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.coding.userSelected Short description If this coding was chosen directly by the user Definition Indicates that this coding was chosen by a user directly - e.g. off a pick list of available items (codes or displays). Requirements This has been identified as a clinical safety criterium - that this exact system/code pair was chosen explicitly, rather than inferred by the system based on some rules or language processing. Comments Amongst a set of alternatives, a directly chosen code is the most appropriate starting point for new translations. There is some ambiguity about what exactly 'directly chosen' implies, and trading partner agreement may be needed to clarify the use of this element and its consequences more completely. Data type boolean Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: Sometimes implied by being first rim: CD.codingRationale orim: fhir:Coding.userSelected fhir:mapsTo dt:CDCoding.codingRationale. fhir:Coding.userSelected fhir:hasMap fhir:Coding.userSelected.map. fhir:Coding.userSelected.map a fhir:Map; fhir:target dt:CDCoding.codingRationale. fhir:Coding.userSelected\#true a [ fhir:source "true"; fhir:target dt:CDCoding.codingRationale\#O ]
text	Σ	0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.category:laboratory.text Short description Plain text representation of the concept Definition A human language representation of the concept as seen/selected/uttered by the user who entered the data and/or which represents the intended meaning of the user. Requirements The codes from the terminologies do not always capture the correct meaning with all the nuances of the human using them, or sometimes there is no appropriate code at all. In these cases, the text is used to capture the full meaning of the source. Comments Very often the text is the same as a displayName of one of the codings. Data type string Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE.9. But note many systems use CE.2 for this rim: ./originalText[mediaType/code="text/plain"]/data orim: fhir:CodeableConcept.text rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CD.originalText
code	S Σ	1..1	CodeableConceptBinding	Element id Observation.code Short description The type of lab related observation (code / type). Alternate names Name Definition Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "name". Requirements Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation. Comments All code-value and, if present, component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation. Data type CodeableConcept Binding A code from the SNOMED Clinical Terminology UK coding system regarding laboratory medicine test results UKCorePathologyAndLaboratoryMedicineObservables (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD workflow: Event.code w5: FiveWs.what[x] sct-concept: < 363787002 \|Observable entity\| OR < 386053000 \|Evaluation procedure\| v2: OBX-3 rim: code sct-attr: 116680003 \|Is a\|
subject	Σ I	0..1	Reference(Patient)	Element id Observation.subject Short description Who and/or what the observation is about Definition The patient, or group of patients, location, or device this observation is about and into whose record the observation is placed. If the actual focus of the observation is different from the subject (or a sample of, part, or region of the subject), the `focus` element or the `code` itself specifies the actual focus of the observation. Requirements Observations have no value if you don't know who or what they're about. Comments One would expect this element to be a cardinality of 1..1. The only circumstance in which the subject can be missing is when the observation is made by a device that does not know the patient. In this case, the observation SHALL be matched to a patient through some context/channel matching technique, and at this point, the observation should be updated. Data type Reference(Patient) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.subject w5: FiveWs.subject[x] v2: PID-3 rim: participation[typeCode=RTGT] w5: FiveWs.subject
focus	Σ I	0..*	Reference(Resource)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.focus Short description What the observation is about, when it is not about the subject of record Definition The actual focus of an observation when it is not the patient of record representing something or someone associated with the patient such as a spouse, parent, fetus, or donor. For example, fetus observations in a mother's record. The focus of an observation could also be an existing condition, an intervention, the subject's diet, another observation of the subject, or a body structure such as tumor or implanted device. An example use case would be using the Observation resource to capture whether the mother is trained to change her child's tracheostomy tube. In this example, the child is the patient of record and the mother is the focus. Comments Typically, an observation is made about the subject - a patient, or group of patients, location, or device - and the distinction between the subject and what is directly measured for an observation is specified in the observation code itself ( e.g., "Blood Glucose") and does not need to be represented separately using this element. Use `specimen` if a reference to a specimen is required. If a code is required instead of a resource use either `bodysite` for bodysites or the standard extension focusCode. Data type Reference(Resource) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) w5: FiveWs.subject[x] v2: OBX-3 rim: participation[typeCode=SBJ] w5: FiveWs.subject
encounter	Σ I	0..1	Reference(Encounter)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.encounter Short description Healthcare event during which this observation is made Alternate names Context Definition The healthcare event (e.g. a patient and healthcare provider interaction) during which this observation is made. Requirements For some observations it may be important to know the link between an observation and a particular encounter. Comments This will typically be the encounter the event occurred within, but some events may be initiated prior to or after the official completion of an encounter but still be tied to the context of the encounter (e.g. pre-admission laboratory tests). Data type Reference(Encounter) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.context w5: FiveWs.context v2: PV1 rim: inboundRelationship[typeCode=COMP].source[classCode=ENC, moodCode=EVN]
effective[x]	Σ	0..1		There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.effective[x] Short description Clinically relevant time/time-period for observation Alternate names Occurrence Definition The time or time-period the observed value is asserted as being true. For biological subjects - e.g. human patients - this is usually called the "physiologically relevant time". This is usually either the time of the procedure or of specimen collection, but very often the source of the date/time is not known, only the date/time itself. Requirements Knowing when an observation was deemed true is important to its relevance as well as determining trends. Comments At least a date should be present unless this observation is a historical report. For recording imprecise or "fuzzy" times (For example, a blood glucose measurement taken "after breakfast") use the Timing datatype which allow the measurement to be tied to regular life events. Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a workflow: Event.occurrence[x] w5: FiveWs.done[x] v2: OBX-14, and/or OBX-19 after v2.4 (depends on who observation made) rim: effectiveTime
effectiveDateTime			dateTime	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type dateTime
effectivePeriod			Period	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Period
effectiveTiming			Timing	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Timing
effectiveInstant			instant	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type instant
issued	Σ	0..1	instant	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.issued Short description Date/Time this version was made available Definition The date and time this version of the observation was made available to providers, typically after the results have been reviewed and verified. Comments For Observations that don’t require review and verification, it may be the same as the `lastUpdated` time of the resource itself. For Observations that do require review and verification for certain updates, it might not be the same as the `lastUpdated` time of the resource itself due to a non-clinically significant update that doesn’t require the new version to be reviewed and verified again. Data type instant Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a w5: FiveWs.recorded v2: OBR.22 (or MSH.7), or perhaps OBX-19 (depends on who observation made) rim: participation[typeCode=AUT].time
performer	Σ I	0..*	Reference(Practitioner \| PractitionerRole \| Organization \| CareTeam \| Patient \| RelatedPerson)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.performer Short description Who is responsible for the observation Definition Who was responsible for asserting the observed value as "true". Requirements May give a degree of confidence in the observation and also indicates where follow-up questions should be directed. Comments References SHALL be a reference to an actual FHIR resource, and SHALL be resolveable (allowing for access control, temporary unavailability, etc.). Resolution can be either by retrieval from the URL, or, where applicable by resource type, by treating an absolute reference as a canonical URL and looking it up in a local registry/repository. Data type Reference(Practitioner \| PractitionerRole \| Organization \| CareTeam \| Patient \| RelatedPerson) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.performer.actor w5: FiveWs.actor v2: OBX.15 / (Practitioner) OBX-16, PRT-5:PRT-4='RO' / (Device) OBX-18 , PRT-10:PRT-4='EQUIP' / (Organization) OBX-23, PRT-8:PRT-4='PO' rim: participation[typeCode=PRF]
value[x]	Σ I	0..1		There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.value[x] Short description Actual result Definition The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value. Requirements An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations. Comments An observation may have; 1) a single value here, 2) both a value and a set of related or component values, or 3) only a set of related or component values. If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below. Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a sct-concept: < 441742003 \|Evaluation finding\| v2: OBX.2, OBX.5, OBX.6 rim: value sct-attr: 363714003 \|Interprets\|
valueQuantity			Quantity	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Quantity
valueCodeableConcept			CodeableConcept	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type CodeableConcept
valueString			string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type string
valueBoolean			boolean	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type boolean
valueInteger			integer	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type integer
valueRange			Range	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Range
valueRatio			Ratio	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Ratio
valueSampledData			SampledData	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type SampledData
valueTime			time	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type time
valueDateTime			dateTime	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type dateTime
valuePeriod			Period	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Period
dataAbsentReason	I	0..1	CodeableConceptBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.dataAbsentReason Short description Why the result is missing Definition Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missing. Requirements For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements. Comments Null or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "specimen unsatisfactory". The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Note that an observation may only be reported if there are values to report. For example differential cell counts values may be reported only when > 0. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for null or exceptional values. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes specifying why the result (`Observation.value[x]`) is missing. DataAbsentReason (extensible) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD v2: N/A rim: value.nullFlavor
interpretation		0..*	CodeableConceptBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.interpretation Short description High, low, normal, etc. Alternate names Abnormal Flag Definition A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal. Requirements For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result. Comments Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes identifying interpretations of observations. ObservationInterpretationCodes (extensible) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| v2: OBX-8 rim: interpretationCode sct-attr: 363713009 \|Has interpretation\|
note		0..*	Annotation	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.note Short description Comments about the observation Definition Comments about the observation or the results. Requirements Need to be able to provide free text additional information. Comments May include general statements about the observation, or statements about significant, unexpected or unreliable results values, or information about its source when relevant to its interpretation. Data type Annotation Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: N/A rim: Act v2: NTE.3 (partner NTE to OBX, or sometimes another (child?) OBX) rim: subjectOf.observationEvent[code="annotation"].value
bodySite		0..1	CodeableConceptBinding	Element id Observation.bodySite Short description Observed body part Definition Indicates the site on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site). Comments Only used if not implicit in code found in Observation.code. In many systems, this may be represented as a related observation instead of an inline component. If the use case requires BodySite to be handled as a separate resource (e.g. to identify and track separately) then use the standard extension bodySite. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes describing anatomical locations. May include laterality. SNOMEDCTBodyStructures (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 123037004 \|Body structure\| v2: OBX-20 rim: targetSiteCode sct-attr: 718497002 \|Inherent location\|
method		0..1	CodeableConceptBinding	Element id Observation.method Short description How it was done Definition Indicates the mechanism used to perform the observation. Requirements In some cases, method can impact results and is thus used for determining whether results can be compared or determining significance of results. Comments Only used if not implicit in code for Observation.code. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Methods for simple observations. ObservationMethods (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD v2: OBX-17 rim: methodCode
specimen	I	0..1	Reference(Specimen)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.specimen Short description Specimen used for this observation Definition The specimen that was used when this observation was made. Comments Should only be used if not implicit in code found in `Observation.code`. Observations are not made on specimens themselves; they are made on a subject, but in many cases by the means of a specimen. Note that although specimens are often involved, they are not always tracked and reported explicitly. Also note that observation resources may be used in contexts that track the specimen explicitly (e.g. Diagnostic Report). Data type Reference(Specimen) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) sct-concept: < 123038009 \|Specimen\| v2: SPM segment rim: participation[typeCode=SPC].specimen sct-attr: 704319004 \|Inherent in\|
device	I	0..1	Reference(Device \| DeviceMetric)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.device Short description (Measurement) Device Definition The device used to generate the observation data. Comments Note that this is not meant to represent a device involved in the transmission of the result, e.g., a gateway. Such devices may be documented using the Provenance resource where relevant. Data type Reference(Device \| DeviceMetric) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) sct-concept: < 49062001 \|Device\| v2: OBX-17 / PRT -10 rim: participation[typeCode=DEV] sct-attr: 424226004 \|Using device\|
referenceRange	I	0..*	BackboneElement	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange Short description Provides guide for interpretation Definition Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range. Multiple reference ranges are interpreted as an "OR". In other words, to represent two distinct target populations, two `referenceRange` elements would be used. Requirements Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts. Comments Most observations only have one generic reference range. Systems MAY choose to restrict to only supplying the relevant reference range based on knowledge about the patient (e.g., specific to the patient's age, gender, weight and other factors), but this might not be possible or appropriate. Whenever more than one reference range is supplied, the differences between them SHOULD be provided in the reference range and/or age properties. Data type BackboneElement Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` obs-3: Must have at least a low or a high or text `low.exists() or high.exists() or text.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a v2: OBX.7 rim: outboundRelationship[typeCode=REFV]/target[classCode=OBS, moodCode=EVN]
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
modifierExtension	Σ ?! I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.modifierExtension Short description Extensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized Alternate names extensions, user content, modifiers Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions. Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself). Requirements Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
low	I	0..1	SimpleQuantity	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.low Short description Low Range, if relevant Definition The value of the low bound of the reference range. The low bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the low bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is <=2.3). Comments The context of use may frequently define what kind of quantity this is and therefore what kind of units can be used. The context of use may also restrict the values for the comparator. Data type SimpleQuantity Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` qty-3: If a code for the unit is present, the system SHALL also be present `code.empty() or system.exists()` sqty-1: The comparator is not used on a SimpleQuantity `comparator.empty()` Mappings rim: n/a v2: SN (see also Range) or CQ rim: PQ, IVL<PQ>, MO, CO, depending on the values v2: OBX-7 rim: value:IVL_PQ.low
high	I	0..1	SimpleQuantity	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.high Short description High Range, if relevant Definition The value of the high bound of the reference range. The high bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the high bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is >= 2.3). Comments The context of use may frequently define what kind of quantity this is and therefore what kind of units can be used. The context of use may also restrict the values for the comparator. Data type SimpleQuantity Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` qty-3: If a code for the unit is present, the system SHALL also be present `code.empty() or system.exists()` sqty-1: The comparator is not used on a SimpleQuantity `comparator.empty()` Mappings rim: n/a v2: SN (see also Range) or CQ rim: PQ, IVL<PQ>, MO, CO, depending on the values v2: OBX-7 rim: value:IVL_PQ.high
type		0..1	CodeableConceptBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.type Short description Reference range qualifier Definition Codes to indicate the what part of the targeted reference population it applies to. For example, the normal or therapeutic range. Requirements Need to be able to say what kind of reference range this is - normal, recommended, therapeutic, etc., - for proper interpretation. Comments This SHOULD be populated if there is more than one range. If this element is not present then the normal range is assumed. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Code for the meaning of a reference range. ObservationReferenceRangeMeaningCodes (preferred) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| OR < 365860008 \|General clinical state finding\| OR < 250171008 \|Clinical history or observation findings\| OR < 415229000 \|Racial group\| OR < 365400002 \|Finding of puberty stage\| OR < 443938003 \|Procedure carried out on subject\| v2: OBX-10 rim: interpretationCode
appliesTo		0..*	CodeableConcept	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.appliesTo Short description Reference range population Definition Codes to indicate the target population this reference range applies to. For example, a reference range may be based on the normal population or a particular sex or race. Multiple `appliesTo` are interpreted as an "AND" of the target populations. For example, to represent a target population of African American females, both a code of female and a code for African American would be used. Requirements Need to be able to identify the target population for proper interpretation. Comments This SHOULD be populated if there is more than one range. If this element is not present then the normal population is assumed. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes identifying the population the reference range applies to. ObservationReferenceRangeAppliesToCodes (example) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| OR < 365860008 \|General clinical state finding\| OR < 250171008 \|Clinical history or observation findings\| OR < 415229000 \|Racial group\| OR < 365400002 \|Finding of puberty stage\| OR < 443938003 \|Procedure carried out on subject\| v2: OBX-10 rim: interpretationCode
age	I	0..1	Range	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.age Short description Applicable age range, if relevant Definition The age at which this reference range is applicable. This is a neonatal age (e.g. number of weeks at term) if the meaning says so. Requirements Some analytes vary greatly over age. Comments The stated low and high value are assumed to have arbitrarily high precision when it comes to determining which values are in the range. I.e. 1.99 is not in the range 2 -> 3. Data type Range Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` rng-2: If present, low SHALL have a lower value than high `low.empty() or high.empty() or (low <= high)` Mappings rim: n/a v2: NR and also possibly SN (but see also quantity) rim: IVL<QTY[not(type="TS")]> [lowClosed="true" and highClosed="true"]or URG<QTY[not(type="TS")]> rim: outboundRelationship[typeCode=PRCN].targetObservationCriterion[code="age"].value
text		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.referenceRange.text Short description Text based reference range in an observation Definition Text based reference range in an observation which may be used when a quantitative range is not appropriate for an observation. An example would be a reference value of "Negative" or a list or table of "normals". Comments Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size Data type string Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: OBX-7 rim: value:ST
hasMember	Σ I	0..*	Reference(Observation \| QuestionnaireResponse \| MolecularSequence)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.hasMember Short description Related resource that belongs to the Observation group Definition This observation is a group observation (e.g. a battery, a panel of tests, a set of vital sign measurements) that includes the target as a member of the group. Comments When using this element, an observation will typically have either a value or a set of related resources, although both may be present in some cases. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below. Note that a system may calculate results from QuestionnaireResponse into a final score and represent the score as an Observation. Data type Reference(Observation \| QuestionnaireResponse \| MolecularSequence) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) v2: Relationships established by OBX-4 usage rim: outBoundRelationship
derivedFrom	Σ I	0..*	Reference(DocumentReference \| ImagingStudy \| Media \| QuestionnaireResponse \| Observation \| MolecularSequence)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.derivedFrom Short description Related measurements the observation is made from Definition The target resource that represents a measurement from which this observation value is derived. For example, a calculated anion gap or a fetal measurement based on an ultrasound image. Comments All the reference choices that are listed in this element can represent clinical observations and other measurements that may be the source for a derived value. The most common reference will be another Observation. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below. Data type Reference(DocumentReference \| ImagingStudy \| Media \| QuestionnaireResponse \| Observation \| MolecularSequence) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))` Mappings rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) v2: Relationships established by OBX-4 usage rim: .targetObservation
component	Σ	0..*	BackboneElement	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component Short description Component results Definition Some observations have multiple component observations. These component observations are expressed as separate code value pairs that share the same attributes. Examples include systolic and diastolic component observations for blood pressure measurement and multiple component observations for genetics observations. Requirements Component observations share the same attributes in the Observation resource as the primary observation and are always treated a part of a single observation (they are not separable). However, the reference range for the primary observation value is not inherited by the component values and is required when appropriate for each component observation. Comments For a discussion on the ways Observations can be assembled in groups together see Notes below. Data type BackboneElement Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: containment by OBX-4? rim: outBoundRelationship[typeCode=COMP]
id		0..1	string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.id Short description Unique id for inter-element referencing Definition Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces. Data type string Mappings rim: n/a
extension	I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.extension Short description Additional content defined by implementations Alternate names extensions, user content Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Sliced: Unordered, Open, by url(Value) Extensions are always sliced by (at least) url Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
modifierExtension	Σ ?! I	0..*	Extension	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.modifierExtension Short description Extensions that cannot be ignored even if unrecognized Alternate names extensions, user content, modifiers Definition May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions. Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself). Requirements Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions. Comments There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone. Data type Extension Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()` Mappings rim: n/a rim: N/A
code	Σ	1..1	CodeableConcept	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.code Short description Type of component observation (code / type) Definition Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "code". Requirements Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation. Comments All code-value and component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes identifying names of simple observations. LOINCCodes (example) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD w5: FiveWs.what[x] sct-concept: < 363787002 \|Observable entity\| OR < 386053000 \|Evaluation procedure\| v2: OBX-3 rim: code
value[x]	Σ	0..1		There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.value[x] Short description Actual component result Definition The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value. Requirements An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations. Comments Used when observation has a set of component observations. An observation may have both a value (e.g. an Apgar score) and component observations (the observations from which the Apgar score was derived). If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below. Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a sct-concept: 363714003 \|Interprets\| < 441742003 \|Evaluation finding\| v2: OBX.2, OBX.5, OBX.6 rim: value sct-attr: 363714003 \|Interprets\|
valueQuantity			Quantity	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Quantity
valueCodeableConcept			CodeableConcept	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type CodeableConcept
valueString			string	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type string
valueBoolean			boolean	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type boolean
valueInteger			integer	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type integer
valueRange			Range	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Range
valueRatio			Ratio	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Ratio
valueSampledData			SampledData	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type SampledData
valueTime			time	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type time
valueDateTime			dateTime	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type dateTime
valuePeriod			Period	There are no (further) constraints on this element Data type Period
dataAbsentReason	I	0..1	CodeableConceptBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.dataAbsentReason Short description Why the component result is missing Definition Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.component.value[x] is missing. Requirements For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements. Comments "Null" or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "test not done". The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for exceptional values. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes specifying why the result (`Observation.value[x]`) is missing. DataAbsentReason (extensible) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD v2: N/A rim: value.nullFlavor
interpretation		0..*	CodeableConceptBinding	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.interpretation Short description High, low, normal, etc. Alternate names Abnormal Flag Definition A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal. Requirements For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result. Comments Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result. Data type CodeableConcept Binding Codes identifying interpretations of observations. ObservationInterpretationCodes (extensible) Constraints ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` Mappings rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| v2: OBX-8 rim: interpretationCode sct-attr: 363713009 \|Has interpretation\|
referenceRange		0..*	see (referenceRange)	There are no (further) constraints on this element Element id Observation.component.referenceRange Short description Provides guide for interpretation of component result Definition Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range. Requirements Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts. Comments Most observations only have one generic reference range. Systems MAY choose to restrict to only supplying the relevant reference range based on knowledge about the patient (e.g., specific to the patient's age, gender, weight and other factors), but this might not be possible or appropriate. Whenever more than one reference range is supplied, the differences between them SHOULD be provided in the reference range and/or age properties. Mappings v2: OBX.7 rim: outboundRelationship[typeCode=REFV]/target[classCode=OBS, moodCode=EVN]

Detailed Descriptions

Observation
Definition	Measurements and simple assertions made about a patient, device or other subject.
Cardinality	0...*
Alias	Vital Signs, Measurement, Results, Tests
Comments	Used for simple observations such as device measurements, laboratory atomic results, vital signs, height, weight, smoking status, comments, etc. Other resources are used to provide context for observations such as laboratory reports, etc.
Invariants	dom-2: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT contain nested Resources `contained.contained.empty()` dom-4: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a meta.versionId or a meta.lastUpdated `contained.meta.versionId.empty() and contained.meta.lastUpdated.empty()` dom-3: If the resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL be referred to from elsewhere in the resource or SHALL refer to the containing resource `contained.where((('#'+id in (%resource.descendants().reference \| %resource.descendants().as(canonical) \| %resource.descendants().as(uri) \| %resource.descendants().as(url))) or descendants().where(reference = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists() or descendants().where(as(canonical) = '#').exists()).not()).trace('unmatched', id).empty()` dom-6: A resource should have narrative for robust management text.`div`.exists() dom-5: If a resource is contained in another resource, it SHALL NOT have a security label `contained.meta.security.empty()` obs-7: If Observation.code is the same as an Observation.component.code then the value element associated with the code SHALL NOT be present `value.empty() or component.code.where(coding.intersect(%resource.code.coding).exists()).empty()` obs-6: dataAbsentReason SHALL only be present if Observation.value[x] is not present `dataAbsentReason.empty() or value.empty()` ukcore-obs-lab-001: Either `value`, `dataAbsentReason` or `note` SHOULD be populated `value.exists() or dataAbsentReason.exists() or note.exists()`
Mappings	rim: Entity. Role, or Act workflow: Event sct-concept: < 363787002 \|Observable entity\| v2: OBX rim: Observation[classCode=OBS, moodCode=EVN]
Observation.id
Definition	The logical id of the resource, as used in the URL for the resource. Once assigned, this value never changes.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Summary	True
Comments	The only time that a resource does not have an id is when it is being submitted to the server using a create operation.
Observation.meta
Definition	The metadata about the resource. This is content that is maintained by the infrastructure. Changes to the content might not always be associated with version changes to the resource.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Meta
Summary	True
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.implicitRules
Definition	A reference to a set of rules that were followed when the resource was constructed, and which must be understood when processing the content. Often, this is a reference to an implementation guide that defines the special rules along with other profiles etc.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	uri
Modifier	True
Summary	True
Comments	Asserting this rule set restricts the content to be only understood by a limited set of trading partners. This inherently limits the usefulness of the data in the long term. However, the existing health eco-system is highly fractured, and not yet ready to define, collect, and exchange data in a generally computable sense. Wherever possible, implementers and/or specification writers should avoid using this element. Often, when used, the URL is a reference to an implementation guide that defines these special rules as part of it's narrative along with other profiles, value sets, etc.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.language
Definition	The base language in which the resource is written.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	code
Binding	A human language. CommonLanguages (preferred)
Comments	Language is provided to support indexing and accessibility (typically, services such as text to speech use the language tag). The html language tag in the narrative applies to the narrative. The language tag on the resource may be used to specify the language of other presentations generated from the data in the resource. Not all the content has to be in the base language. The Resource.language should not be assumed to apply to the narrative automatically. If a language is specified, it should it also be specified on the div element in the html (see rules in HTML5 for information about the relationship between xml:lang and the html lang attribute).
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.text
Definition	A human-readable narrative that contains a summary of the resource and can be used to represent the content of the resource to a human. The narrative need not encode all the structured data, but is required to contain sufficient detail to make it "clinically safe" for a human to just read the narrative. Resource definitions may define what content should be represented in the narrative to ensure clinical safety.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Narrative
Alias	narrative, html, xhtml, display
Comments	Contained resources do not have narrative. Resources that are not contained SHOULD have a narrative. In some cases, a resource may only have text with little or no additional discrete data (as long as all minOccurs=1 elements are satisfied). This may be necessary for data from legacy systems where information is captured as a "text blob" or where text is additionally entered raw or narrated and encoded information is added later.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A rim: Act.text?
Observation.contained
Definition	These resources do not have an independent existence apart from the resource that contains them - they cannot be identified independently, and nor can they have their own independent transaction scope.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Resource
Alias	inline resources, anonymous resources, contained resources
Comments	This should never be done when the content can be identified properly, as once identification is lost, it is extremely difficult (and context dependent) to restore it again. Contained resources may have profiles and tags In their meta elements, but SHALL NOT have security labels.
Mappings	rim: Entity. Role, or Act rim: N/A
Observation.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5
Definition	Identifies the observation(s) that triggered the performance of this observation.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension(Complex)
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	2...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation
Definition	Reference to the triggering observation.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.url
Definition	Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	uri
Comments	The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension.
Fixed Value	observation
Mappings	rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.value[x]
Definition	A reference to the triggering observation.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	Reference(Observation)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type
Definition	The type of trigger. Reflex \| Repeat \| Re-run.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	Extension
Binding	http://hl7.org/fhir/ValueSet/observation-triggeredbytype (required)
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.url
Definition	Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	uri
Comments	The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension.
Fixed Value	type
Mappings	rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.value[x]
Definition	The type of trigger. Reflex \| Repeat \| Re-run
Cardinality	1...1
Type	code
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason
Definition	Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation(s) referenced.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.url
Definition	Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	uri
Comments	The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension.
Fixed Value	reason
Mappings	rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.value[x]
Definition	Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation referenced.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	string
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.url
Definition	Source of the definition for the extension code - a logical name or a URL.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	uri
Comments	The definition may point directly to a computable or human-readable definition of the extensibility codes, or it may be a logical URI as declared in some other specification. The definition SHALL be a URI for the Structure Definition defining the extension.
Fixed Value	http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.triggeredBy
Mappings	rim: N/A
Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.value[x]
Definition	Value of extension - must be one of a constrained set of the data types (see [Extensibility](extensibility.html) for a list).
Cardinality	0...0
Type	base64Binary
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.extension:bodyStructureR5
Definition	Indicates the body structure on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site).
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Extension(Reference(BodyStructure))
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.modifierExtension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the resource and that modifies the understanding of the element that contains it and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer is allowed to define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions. Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Modifier	True
Alias	extensions, user content
Requirements	Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.identifier
Definition	A unique identifier assigned to this observation.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Identifier
Summary	True
Requirements	Allows observations to be distinguished and referenced.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CX / EI (occasionally, more often EI maps to a resource id or a URL) rim: II - The Identifier class is a little looser than the v3 type II because it allows URIs as well as registered OIDs or GUIDs. Also maps to Role[classCode=IDENT] servd: Identifier workflow: Event.identifier w5: FiveWs.identifier v2: OBX.21 For OBX segments from systems without OBX-21 support a combination of ORC/OBR and OBX must be negotiated between trading partners to uniquely identify the OBX segment. Depending on how V2 has been implemented each of these may be an option: 1) OBR-3 + OBX-3 + OBX-4 or 2) OBR-3 + OBR-4 + OBX-3 + OBX-4 or 2) some other way to uniquely ID the OBR/ORC + OBX-3 + OBX-4. rim: id
Observation.basedOn
Definition	A plan, proposal or order that is fulfilled in whole or in part by this event. For example, a MedicationRequest may require a patient to have laboratory test performed before it is dispensed.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Reference(CarePlan \| DeviceRequest \| ImmunizationRecommendation \| MedicationRequest \| NutritionOrder \| ServiceRequest)
Summary	True
Alias	Fulfills
Requirements	Allows tracing of authorization for the event and tracking whether proposals/recommendations were acted upon.
Comments	References SHALL be a reference to an actual FHIR resource, and SHALL be resolveable (allowing for access control, temporary unavailability, etc.). Resolution can be either by retrieval from the URL, or, where applicable by resource type, by treating an absolute reference as a canonical URL and looking it up in a local registry/repository.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.basedOn v2: ORC rim: .inboundRelationship[typeCode=COMP].source[moodCode=EVN]
Observation.partOf
Definition	A larger event of which this particular Observation is a component or step. For example, an observation as part of a procedure.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Reference(MedicationAdministration \| MedicationDispense \| MedicationStatement \| Procedure \| Immunization \| ImagingStudy)
Summary	True
Alias	Container
Comments	To link an Observation to an Encounter use `encounter`. See the Notes below for guidance on referencing another Observation.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.partOf v2: Varies by domain rim: .outboundRelationship[typeCode=FLFS].target
Observation.status
Definition	The status of the result value.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	code
Binding	Codes providing the status of an observation. ObservationStatus (required)
Must Support	True
Modifier	True
Summary	True
Requirements	Need to track the status of individual results. Some results are finalized before the whole report is finalized.
Comments	This element is labeled as a modifier because the status contains codes that mark the resource as not currently valid.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a workflow: Event.status w5: FiveWs.status sct-concept: < 445584004 \|Report by finality status\| v2: OBX-11 rim: status Amended & Final are differentiated by whether it is the subject of a ControlAct event with a type of "revise"
Observation.category
Definition	A code that classifies the general type of observation being made.
Cardinality	1...*
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes for high level observation categories. ObservationCategoryCodes (preferred)
Must Support	True
Requirements	Used for filtering what observations are retrieved and displayed.
Comments	In addition to the required category valueset, this element allows various categorization schemes based on the owner’s definition of the category and effectively multiple categories can be used at once. The level of granularity is defined by the category concepts in the value set.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by coding.code(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD w5: FiveWs.class rim: .outboundRelationship[typeCode="COMP].target[classCode="LIST", moodCode="EVN"].code
Observation.category:laboratory
Definition	A code that classifies the general type of observation being made.
Cardinality	1...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes for high level observation categories. ObservationCategoryCodes (preferred)
Must Support	True
Requirements	Used for filtering what observations are retrieved and displayed.
Comments	In addition to the required category valueset, this element allows various categorization schemes based on the owner’s definition of the category and effectively multiple categories can be used at once. The level of granularity is defined by the category concepts in the value set.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD w5: FiveWs.class rim: .outboundRelationship[typeCode="COMP].target[classCode="LIST", moodCode="EVN"].code
Observation.category:laboratory.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.category:laboratory.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.category:laboratory.coding
Definition	A reference to a code defined by a terminology system.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Coding
Summary	True
Requirements	Allows for alternative encodings within a code system, and translations to other code systems.
Comments	Codes may be defined very casually in enumerations, or code lists, up to very formal definitions such as SNOMED CT - see the HL7 v3 Core Principles for more information. Ordering of codings is undefined and SHALL NOT be used to infer meaning. Generally, at most only one of the coding values will be labeled as UserSelected = true.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE subset one of the sets of component 1-3 or 4-6 rim: CV orim: fhir:Coding rdfs:subClassOf dt:CDCoding v2: CE.1-8, CE.10-22 rim: union(., ./translation) orim: fhir:CodeableConcept.coding rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CD.coding
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.system
Definition	The identification of the code system that defines the meaning of the symbol in the code.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	uri
Summary	True
Requirements	Need to be unambiguous about the source of the definition of the symbol.
Comments	The URI may be an OID (urn:oid:...) or a UUID (urn:uuid:...). OIDs and UUIDs SHALL be references to the HL7 OID registry. Otherwise, the URI should come from HL7's list of FHIR defined special URIs or it should reference to some definition that establishes the system clearly and unambiguously.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Fixed Value	http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE.3 rim:* ./codeSystem orim: fhir:Coding.system rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.codeSystem
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.version
Definition	The version of the code system which was used when choosing this code. Note that a well-maintained code system does not need the version reported, because the meaning of codes is consistent across versions. However this cannot consistently be assured, and when the meaning is not guaranteed to be consistent, the version SHOULD be exchanged.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Summary	True
Comments	Where the terminology does not clearly define what string should be used to identify code system versions, the recommendation is to use the date (expressed in FHIR date format) on which that version was officially published as the version date.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE.7 rim:* ./codeSystemVersion orim: fhir:Coding.version rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.codeSystemVersion
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.code
Definition	A symbol in syntax defined by the system. The symbol may be a predefined code or an expression in a syntax defined by the coding system (e.g. post-coordination).
Cardinality	0...1
Type	code
Summary	True
Requirements	Need to refer to a particular code in the system.
Comments	Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Fixed Value	laboratory
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE.1 rim:* ./code orim: fhir:Coding.code rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.code
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.display
Definition	A representation of the meaning of the code in the system, following the rules of the system.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Summary	True
Requirements	Need to be able to carry a human-readable meaning of the code for readers that do not know the system.
Comments	Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE.2 - but note this is not well followed rim:* CV.displayName orim: fhir:Coding.display rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CDCoding.displayName
Observation.category:laboratory.coding.userSelected
Definition	Indicates that this coding was chosen by a user directly - e.g. off a pick list of available items (codes or displays).
Cardinality	0...1
Type	boolean
Summary	True
Requirements	This has been identified as a clinical safety criterium - that this exact system/code pair was chosen explicitly, rather than inferred by the system based on some rules or language processing.
Comments	Amongst a set of alternatives, a directly chosen code is the most appropriate starting point for new translations. There is some ambiguity about what exactly 'directly chosen' implies, and trading partner agreement may be needed to clarify the use of this element and its consequences more completely.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: Sometimes implied by being first rim: CD.codingRationale orim: fhir:Coding.userSelected fhir:mapsTo dt:CDCoding.codingRationale. fhir:Coding.userSelected fhir:hasMap fhir:Coding.userSelected.map. fhir:Coding.userSelected.map a fhir:Map; fhir:target dt:CDCoding.codingRationale. fhir:Coding.userSelected\#true a [ fhir:source "true"; fhir:target dt:CDCoding.codingRationale\#O ]
Observation.category:laboratory.text
Definition	A human language representation of the concept as seen/selected/uttered by the user who entered the data and/or which represents the intended meaning of the user.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Summary	True
Requirements	The codes from the terminologies do not always capture the correct meaning with all the nuances of the human using them, or sometimes there is no appropriate code at all. In these cases, the text is used to capture the full meaning of the source.
Comments	Very often the text is the same as a displayName of one of the codings.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE.9. But note many systems use CE.2 for this rim: ./originalText[mediaType/code="text/plain"]/data orim: fhir:CodeableConcept.text rdfs:subPropertyOf dt:CD.originalText
Observation.code
Definition	Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "name".
Cardinality	1...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	A code from the SNOMED Clinical Terminology UK coding system regarding laboratory medicine test results UKCorePathologyAndLaboratoryMedicineObservables (preferred)
Must Support	True
Summary	True
Alias	Name
Requirements	Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation.
Comments	All code-value and, if present, component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD workflow: Event.code w5: FiveWs.what[x] sct-concept: < 363787002 \|Observable entity\| OR < 386053000 \|Evaluation procedure\| v2: OBX-3 rim: code sct-attr: 116680003 \|Is a\|
Observation.subject
Definition	The patient, or group of patients, location, or device this observation is about and into whose record the observation is placed. If the actual focus of the observation is different from the subject (or a sample of, part, or region of the subject), the `focus` element or the `code` itself specifies the actual focus of the observation.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Reference(Patient)
Summary	True
Requirements	Observations have no value if you don't know who or what they're about.
Comments	One would expect this element to be a cardinality of 1..1. The only circumstance in which the subject can be missing is when the observation is made by a device that does not know the patient. In this case, the observation SHALL be matched to a patient through some context/channel matching technique, and at this point, the observation should be updated.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.subject w5: FiveWs.subject[x] v2: PID-3 rim: participation[typeCode=RTGT] w5: FiveWs.subject
Observation.focus
Definition	The actual focus of an observation when it is not the patient of record representing something or someone associated with the patient such as a spouse, parent, fetus, or donor. For example, fetus observations in a mother's record. The focus of an observation could also be an existing condition, an intervention, the subject's diet, another observation of the subject, or a body structure such as tumor or implanted device. An example use case would be using the Observation resource to capture whether the mother is trained to change her child's tracheostomy tube. In this example, the child is the patient of record and the mother is the focus.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Reference(Resource)
Summary	True
Comments	Typically, an observation is made about the subject - a patient, or group of patients, location, or device - and the distinction between the subject and what is directly measured for an observation is specified in the observation code itself ( e.g., "Blood Glucose") and does not need to be represented separately using this element. Use `specimen` if a reference to a specimen is required. If a code is required instead of a resource use either `bodysite` for bodysites or the standard extension focusCode.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) w5: FiveWs.subject[x] v2: OBX-3 rim: participation[typeCode=SBJ] w5: FiveWs.subject
Observation.encounter
Definition	The healthcare event (e.g. a patient and healthcare provider interaction) during which this observation is made.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Reference(Encounter)
Summary	True
Alias	Context
Requirements	For some observations it may be important to know the link between an observation and a particular encounter.
Comments	This will typically be the encounter the event occurred within, but some events may be initiated prior to or after the official completion of an encounter but still be tied to the context of the encounter (e.g. pre-admission laboratory tests).
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.context w5: FiveWs.context v2: PV1 rim: inboundRelationship[typeCode=COMP].source[classCode=ENC, moodCode=EVN]
Observation.effective[x]
Definition	The time or time-period the observed value is asserted as being true. For biological subjects - e.g. human patients - this is usually called the "physiologically relevant time". This is usually either the time of the procedure or of specimen collection, but very often the source of the date/time is not known, only the date/time itself.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	dateTime
Summary	True
Alias	Occurrence
Requirements	Knowing when an observation was deemed true is important to its relevance as well as determining trends.
Comments	At least a date should be present unless this observation is a historical report. For recording imprecise or "fuzzy" times (For example, a blood glucose measurement taken "after breakfast") use the Timing datatype which allow the measurement to be tied to regular life events.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a workflow: Event.occurrence[x] w5: FiveWs.done[x] v2: OBX-14, and/or OBX-19 after v2.4 (depends on who observation made) rim: effectiveTime
Observation.issued
Definition	The date and time this version of the observation was made available to providers, typically after the results have been reviewed and verified.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	instant
Summary	True
Comments	For Observations that don’t require review and verification, it may be the same as the `lastUpdated` time of the resource itself. For Observations that do require review and verification for certain updates, it might not be the same as the `lastUpdated` time of the resource itself due to a non-clinically significant update that doesn’t require the new version to be reviewed and verified again.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a w5: FiveWs.recorded v2: OBR.22 (or MSH.7), or perhaps OBX-19 (depends on who observation made) rim: participation[typeCode=AUT].time
Observation.performer
Definition	Who was responsible for asserting the observed value as "true".
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Reference(Practitioner \| PractitionerRole \| Organization \| CareTeam \| Patient \| RelatedPerson)
Summary	True
Requirements	May give a degree of confidence in the observation and also indicates where follow-up questions should be directed.
Comments	References SHALL be a reference to an actual FHIR resource, and SHALL be resolveable (allowing for access control, temporary unavailability, etc.). Resolution can be either by retrieval from the URL, or, where applicable by resource type, by treating an absolute reference as a canonical URL and looking it up in a local registry/repository.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) workflow: Event.performer.actor w5: FiveWs.actor v2: OBX.15 / (Practitioner) OBX-16, PRT-5:PRT-4='RO' / (Device) OBX-18 , PRT-10:PRT-4='EQUIP' / (Organization) OBX-23, PRT-8:PRT-4='PO' rim: participation[typeCode=PRF]
Observation.value[x]
Definition	The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Quantity
Summary	True
Requirements	An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations.
Comments	An observation may have; 1) a single value here, 2) both a value and a set of related or component values, or 3) only a set of related or component values. If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a sct-concept: < 441742003 \|Evaluation finding\| v2: OBX.2, OBX.5, OBX.6 rim: value sct-attr: 363714003 \|Interprets\|
Observation.dataAbsentReason
Definition	Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.value[x] is missing.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes specifying why the result (`Observation.value[x]`) is missing. DataAbsentReason (extensible)
Requirements	For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements.
Comments	Null or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "specimen unsatisfactory". The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Note that an observation may only be reported if there are values to report. For example differential cell counts values may be reported only when > 0. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for null or exceptional values.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD v2: N/A rim: value.nullFlavor
Observation.interpretation
Definition	A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes identifying interpretations of observations. ObservationInterpretationCodes (extensible)
Alias	Abnormal Flag
Requirements	For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result.
Comments	Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| v2: OBX-8 rim: interpretationCode sct-attr: 363713009 \|Has interpretation\|
Observation.note
Definition	Comments about the observation or the results.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Annotation
Requirements	Need to be able to provide free text additional information.
Comments	May include general statements about the observation, or statements about significant, unexpected or unreliable results values, or information about its source when relevant to its interpretation.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: N/A rim: Act v2: NTE.3 (partner NTE to OBX, or sometimes another (child?) OBX) rim: subjectOf.observationEvent[code="annotation"].value
Observation.bodySite
Definition	Indicates the site on the subject's body where the observation was made (i.e. the target site).
Cardinality	0...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes describing anatomical locations. May include laterality. SNOMEDCTBodyStructures (preferred)
Comments	Only used if not implicit in code found in Observation.code. In many systems, this may be represented as a related observation instead of an inline component. If the use case requires BodySite to be handled as a separate resource (e.g. to identify and track separately) then use the standard extension bodySite.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 123037004 \|Body structure\| v2: OBX-20 rim: targetSiteCode sct-attr: 718497002 \|Inherent location\|
Observation.method
Definition	Indicates the mechanism used to perform the observation.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Methods for simple observations. ObservationMethods (preferred)
Requirements	In some cases, method can impact results and is thus used for determining whether results can be compared or determining significance of results.
Comments	Only used if not implicit in code for Observation.code.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD v2: OBX-17 rim: methodCode
Observation.specimen
Definition	The specimen that was used when this observation was made.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Reference(Specimen)
Comments	Should only be used if not implicit in code found in `Observation.code`. Observations are not made on specimens themselves; they are made on a subject, but in many cases by the means of a specimen. Note that although specimens are often involved, they are not always tracked and reported explicitly. Also note that observation resources may be used in contexts that track the specimen explicitly (e.g. Diagnostic Report).
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) sct-concept: < 123038009 \|Specimen\| v2: SPM segment rim: participation[typeCode=SPC].specimen sct-attr: 704319004 \|Inherent in\|
Observation.device
Definition	The device used to generate the observation data.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Reference(Device \| DeviceMetric)
Comments	Note that this is not meant to represent a device involved in the transmission of the result, e.g., a gateway. Such devices may be documented using the Provenance resource where relevant.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) sct-concept: < 49062001 \|Device\| v2: OBX-17 / PRT -10 rim: participation[typeCode=DEV] sct-attr: 424226004 \|Using device\|
Observation.referenceRange
Definition	Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range. Multiple reference ranges are interpreted as an "OR". In other words, to represent two distinct target populations, two `referenceRange` elements would be used.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	BackboneElement
Requirements	Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts.
Comments	Most observations only have one generic reference range. Systems MAY choose to restrict to only supplying the relevant reference range based on knowledge about the patient (e.g., specific to the patient's age, gender, weight and other factors), but this might not be possible or appropriate. Whenever more than one reference range is supplied, the differences between them SHOULD be provided in the reference range and/or age properties.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` obs-3: Must have at least a low or a high or text `low.exists() or high.exists() or text.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: OBX.7 rim: outboundRelationship[typeCode=REFV]/target[classCode=OBS, moodCode=EVN]
Observation.referenceRange.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.referenceRange.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.referenceRange.modifierExtension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions. Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Modifier	True
Summary	True
Alias	extensions, user content, modifiers
Requirements	Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.referenceRange.low
Definition	The value of the low bound of the reference range. The low bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the low bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is <=2.3).
Cardinality	0...1
Type	SimpleQuantity
Comments	The context of use may frequently define what kind of quantity this is and therefore what kind of units can be used. The context of use may also restrict the values for the comparator.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` qty-3: If a code for the unit is present, the system SHALL also be present `code.empty() or system.exists()` sqty-1: The comparator is not used on a SimpleQuantity `comparator.empty()`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: SN (see also Range) or CQ rim: PQ, IVL<PQ>, MO, CO, depending on the values v2: OBX-7 rim: value:IVL_PQ.low
Observation.referenceRange.high
Definition	The value of the high bound of the reference range. The high bound of the reference range endpoint is inclusive of the value (e.g. reference range is >=5 - <=9). If the high bound is omitted, it is assumed to be meaningless (e.g. reference range is >= 2.3).
Cardinality	0...1
Type	SimpleQuantity
Comments	The context of use may frequently define what kind of quantity this is and therefore what kind of units can be used. The context of use may also restrict the values for the comparator.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` qty-3: If a code for the unit is present, the system SHALL also be present `code.empty() or system.exists()` sqty-1: The comparator is not used on a SimpleQuantity `comparator.empty()`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: SN (see also Range) or CQ rim: PQ, IVL<PQ>, MO, CO, depending on the values v2: OBX-7 rim: value:IVL_PQ.high
Observation.referenceRange.type
Definition	Codes to indicate the what part of the targeted reference population it applies to. For example, the normal or therapeutic range.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Code for the meaning of a reference range. ObservationReferenceRangeMeaningCodes (preferred)
Requirements	Need to be able to say what kind of reference range this is - normal, recommended, therapeutic, etc., - for proper interpretation.
Comments	This SHOULD be populated if there is more than one range. If this element is not present then the normal range is assumed.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| OR < 365860008 \|General clinical state finding\| OR < 250171008 \|Clinical history or observation findings\| OR < 415229000 \|Racial group\| OR < 365400002 \|Finding of puberty stage\| OR < 443938003 \|Procedure carried out on subject\| v2: OBX-10 rim: interpretationCode
Observation.referenceRange.appliesTo
Definition	Codes to indicate the target population this reference range applies to. For example, a reference range may be based on the normal population or a particular sex or race. Multiple `appliesTo` are interpreted as an "AND" of the target populations. For example, to represent a target population of African American females, both a code of female and a code for African American would be used.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes identifying the population the reference range applies to. ObservationReferenceRangeAppliesToCodes (example)
Requirements	Need to be able to identify the target population for proper interpretation.
Comments	This SHOULD be populated if there is more than one range. If this element is not present then the normal population is assumed.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| OR < 365860008 \|General clinical state finding\| OR < 250171008 \|Clinical history or observation findings\| OR < 415229000 \|Racial group\| OR < 365400002 \|Finding of puberty stage\| OR < 443938003 \|Procedure carried out on subject\| v2: OBX-10 rim: interpretationCode
Observation.referenceRange.age
Definition	The age at which this reference range is applicable. This is a neonatal age (e.g. number of weeks at term) if the meaning says so.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Range
Requirements	Some analytes vary greatly over age.
Comments	The stated low and high value are assumed to have arbitrarily high precision when it comes to determining which values are in the range. I.e. 1.99 is not in the range 2 -> 3.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` rng-2: If present, low SHALL have a lower value than high `low.empty() or high.empty() or (low <= high)`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: NR and also possibly SN (but see also quantity) rim: IVL<QTY[not(type="TS")]> [lowClosed="true" and highClosed="true"]or URG<QTY[not(type="TS")]> rim: outboundRelationship[typeCode=PRCN].targetObservationCriterion[code="age"].value
Observation.referenceRange.text
Definition	Text based reference range in an observation which may be used when a quantitative range is not appropriate for an observation. An example would be a reference value of "Negative" or a list or table of "normals".
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Comments	Note that FHIR strings SHALL NOT exceed 1MB in size
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: OBX-7 rim: value:ST
Observation.hasMember
Definition	This observation is a group observation (e.g. a battery, a panel of tests, a set of vital sign measurements) that includes the target as a member of the group.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Reference(Observation \| QuestionnaireResponse \| MolecularSequence)
Summary	True
Comments	When using this element, an observation will typically have either a value or a set of related resources, although both may be present in some cases. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below. Note that a system may calculate results from QuestionnaireResponse into a final score and represent the score as an Observation.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) v2: Relationships established by OBX-4 usage rim: outBoundRelationship
Observation.derivedFrom
Definition	The target resource that represents a measurement from which this observation value is derived. For example, a calculated anion gap or a fetal measurement based on an ultrasound image.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Reference(DocumentReference \| ImagingStudy \| Media \| QuestionnaireResponse \| Observation \| MolecularSequence)
Summary	True
Comments	All the reference choices that are listed in this element can represent clinical observations and other measurements that may be the source for a derived value. The most common reference will be another Observation. For a discussion on the ways Observations can assembled in groups together, see Notes below.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ref-1: SHALL have a contained resource if a local reference is provided `reference.startsWith('#').not() or (reference.substring(1).trace('url') in %rootResource.contained.id.trace('ids'))`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: The target of a resource reference is a RIM entry point (Act, Role, or Entity) v2: Relationships established by OBX-4 usage rim: .targetObservation
Observation.component
Definition	Some observations have multiple component observations. These component observations are expressed as separate code value pairs that share the same attributes. Examples include systolic and diastolic component observations for blood pressure measurement and multiple component observations for genetics observations.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	BackboneElement
Summary	True
Requirements	Component observations share the same attributes in the Observation resource as the primary observation and are always treated a part of a single observation (they are not separable). However, the reference range for the primary observation value is not inherited by the component values and is required when appropriate for each component observation.
Comments	For a discussion on the ways Observations can be assembled in groups together see Notes below.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: containment by OBX-4? rim: outBoundRelationship[typeCode=COMP]
Observation.component.id
Definition	Unique id for the element within a resource (for internal references). This may be any string value that does not contain spaces.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	string
Mappings	rim: n/a
Observation.component.extension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Alias	extensions, user content
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Slicing	Unordered, Open, by url(Value)
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.component.modifierExtension
Definition	May be used to represent additional information that is not part of the basic definition of the element and that modifies the understanding of the element in which it is contained and/or the understanding of the containing element's descendants. Usually modifier elements provide negation or qualification. To make the use of extensions safe and manageable, there is a strict set of governance applied to the definition and use of extensions. Though any implementer can define an extension, there is a set of requirements that SHALL be met as part of the definition of the extension. Applications processing a resource are required to check for modifier extensions. Modifier extensions SHALL NOT change the meaning of any elements on Resource or DomainResource (including cannot change the meaning of modifierExtension itself).
Cardinality	0...*
Type	Extension
Modifier	True
Summary	True
Alias	extensions, user content, modifiers
Requirements	Modifier extensions allow for extensions that cannot be safely ignored to be clearly distinguished from the vast majority of extensions which can be safely ignored. This promotes interoperability by eliminating the need for implementers to prohibit the presence of extensions. For further information, see the definition of modifier extensions.
Comments	There can be no stigma associated with the use of extensions by any application, project, or standard - regardless of the institution or jurisdiction that uses or defines the extensions. The use of extensions is what allows the FHIR specification to retain a core level of simplicity for everyone.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())` ext-1: Must have either extensions or value[x], not both `extension.exists() != value.exists()`
Mappings	rim: n/a rim: N/A
Observation.component.code
Definition	Describes what was observed. Sometimes this is called the observation "code".
Cardinality	1...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes identifying names of simple observations. LOINCCodes (example)
Summary	True
Requirements	Knowing what kind of observation is being made is essential to understanding the observation.
Comments	All code-value and component.code-component.value pairs need to be taken into account to correctly understand the meaning of the observation.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD w5: FiveWs.what[x] sct-concept: < 363787002 \|Observable entity\| OR < 386053000 \|Evaluation procedure\| v2: OBX-3 rim: code
Observation.component.value[x]
Definition	The information determined as a result of making the observation, if the information has a simple value.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	Quantity
Summary	True
Requirements	An observation exists to have a value, though it might not if it is in error, or if it represents a group of observations.
Comments	Used when observation has a set of component observations. An observation may have both a value (e.g. an Apgar score) and component observations (the observations from which the Apgar score was derived). If a value is present, the datatype for this element should be determined by Observation.code. A CodeableConcept with just a text would be used instead of a string if the field was usually coded, or if the type associated with the Observation.code defines a coded value. For additional guidance, see the Notes section below.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a sct-concept: 363714003 \|Interprets\| < 441742003 \|Evaluation finding\| v2: OBX.2, OBX.5, OBX.6 rim: value sct-attr: 363714003 \|Interprets\|
Observation.component.dataAbsentReason
Definition	Provides a reason why the expected value in the element Observation.component.value[x] is missing.
Cardinality	0...1
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes specifying why the result (`Observation.value[x]`) is missing. DataAbsentReason (extensible)
Requirements	For many results it is necessary to handle exceptional values in measurements.
Comments	"Null" or exceptional values can be represented two ways in FHIR Observations. One way is to simply include them in the value set and represent the exceptions in the value. For example, measurement values for a serology test could be "detected", "not detected", "inconclusive", or "test not done". The alternate way is to use the value element for actual observations and use the explicit dataAbsentReason element to record exceptional values. For example, the dataAbsentReason code "error" could be used when the measurement was not completed. Because of these options, use-case agreements are required to interpret general observations for exceptional values.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD v2: N/A rim: value.nullFlavor
Observation.component.interpretation
Definition	A categorical assessment of an observation value. For example, high, low, normal.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	CodeableConcept
Binding	Codes identifying interpretations of observations. ObservationInterpretationCodes (extensible)
Alias	Abnormal Flag
Requirements	For some results, particularly numeric results, an interpretation is necessary to fully understand the significance of a result.
Comments	Historically used for laboratory results (known as 'abnormal flag' ), its use extends to other use cases where coded interpretations are relevant. Often reported as one or more simple compact codes this element is often placed adjacent to the result value in reports and flow sheets to signal the meaning/normalcy status of the result.
Invariants	ele-1: All FHIR elements must have a @value or children `hasValue() or (children().count() > id.count())`
Mappings	rim: n/a v2: CE/CNE/CWE rim: CD orim: fhir:CodeableConcept rdfs:subClassOf dt:CD sct-concept: < 260245000 \|Findings values\| v2: OBX-8 rim: interpretationCode sct-attr: 363713009 \|Has interpretation\|
Observation.component.referenceRange
Definition	Guidance on how to interpret the value by comparison to a normal or recommended range.
Cardinality	0...*
Type	see (referenceRange)
Requirements	Knowing what values are considered "normal" can help evaluate the significance of a particular result. Need to be able to provide multiple reference ranges for different contexts.
Comments	Most observations only have one generic reference range. Systems MAY choose to restrict to only supplying the relevant reference range based on knowledge about the patient (e.g., specific to the patient's age, gender, weight and other factors), but this might not be possible or appropriate. Whenever more than one reference range is supplied, the differences between them SHOULD be provided in the reference range and/or age properties.
Mappings	v2: OBX.7 rim: outboundRelationship[typeCode=REFV]/target[classCode=OBS, moodCode=EVN]

Table View

Observation		..
Observation.extension	Extension	..
Observation.extension.extension		..
Observation.extension.extension.value[x]		..
Observation.extension.extension		..
Observation.extension.extension.value[x]		..
Observation.extension.extension		..
Observation.extension.extension.value[x]		..
Observation.extension	Extension	..
Observation.status		..
Observation.category		1..
Observation.category		1..1
Observation.category.coding		..
Observation.category.coding.system		..
Observation.category.coding.code		..
Observation.code		..
Observation.subject	Reference(Patient)	..
Observation.bodySite		..
Observation.method		..

XML View

<StructureDefinition xmlns="http://hl7.org/fhir">
    <id value="UKCore-Observation-Lab" />
    <url value="https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/StructureDefinition/UKCore-Observation-Lab" />
    <version value="2.0.1" />
    <name value="UKCoreObservationLab" />
    <title value="UK Core Observation Lab" />
    <status value="active" />
    <date value="2024-07-23" />
    <publisher value="HL7 UK" />
    <contact>
        <name value="HL7 UK" />
        <telecom>
            <system value="email" />
            <value value="ukcore@hl7.org.uk" />
            <use value="work" />
            <rank value="1" />
        </telecom>
    </contact>
    <description value="This profile defines the UK constraints and extensions on the International FHIR resource [Observation](https://hl7.org/fhir/R4/Observation.html), in order to represent an individual laboratory test and result value. These tests can be grouped together using the UKCore-Observation-Group-Lab profile." />
    <purpose value="To provide the minimum expectations for each individual laboratory test." />
    <copyright value="Copyright &#169; 2021+ HL7 UK Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the &quot;License&quot;); you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. You may obtain a copy of the License at  http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software distributed under the License is distributed on an &quot;AS IS&quot; BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. See the License for the specific language governing permissions and limitations under the License. HL7&#174; FHIR&#174; standard Copyright &#169; 2011+ HL7 The HL7&#174; FHIR&#174; standard is used under the FHIR license. You may obtain a copy of the FHIR license at  https://www.hl7.org/fhir/license.html." />
    <fhirVersion value="4.0.1" />
    <kind value="resource" />
    <abstract value="false" />
    <type value="Observation" />
    <baseDefinition value="http://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/Observation" />
    <derivation value="constraint" />
    <differential>
        <element id="Observation">
            <path value="Observation" />
            <constraint>
                <key value="ukcore-obs-lab-001" />
                <severity value="warning" />
                <human value="Either `value`, `dataAbsentReason` or `note` SHOULD be populated" />
                <expression value="value.exists() or dataAbsentReason.exists() or note.exists()" />
            </constraint>
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5">
            <path value="Observation.extension" />
            <sliceName value="triggeredByR5" />
            <short value="Triggering observation(s). This is a R5 backport." />
            <type>
                <code value="Extension" />
                <profile value="http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.triggeredBy" />
            </type>
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation">
            <path value="Observation.extension.extension" />
            <sliceName value="observation" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.value[x]">
            <path value="Observation.extension.extension.value[x]" />
            <short value="Triggering observation." />
            <definition value="A reference to the triggering observation." />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type">
            <path value="Observation.extension.extension" />
            <sliceName value="type" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.value[x]">
            <path value="Observation.extension.extension.value[x]" />
            <short value="The type of trigger. Reflex | Repeat | Re-run" />
            <definition value="The type of trigger. Reflex | Repeat | Re-run" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason">
            <path value="Observation.extension.extension" />
            <sliceName value="reason" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.value[x]">
            <path value="Observation.extension.extension.value[x]" />
            <short value="Reason that the observation was triggered." />
            <definition value="Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation referenced." />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.extension:bodyStructureR5">
            <path value="Observation.extension" />
            <sliceName value="bodyStructureR5" />
            <short value="Observed body structure. This is a R5 backport." />
            <type>
                <code value="Extension" />
                <profile value="http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.bodyStructure" />
            </type>
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.status">
            <path value="Observation.status" />
            <short value="The status of the result value." />
            <mustSupport value="true" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.category">
            <path value="Observation.category" />
            <slicing>
                <discriminator>
                    <type value="value" />
                    <path value="coding.code" />
                </discriminator>
                <rules value="open" />
            </slicing>
            <short value="A code that classifies the general type of observation being made." />
            <min value="1" />
            <mustSupport value="true" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.category:laboratory">
            <path value="Observation.category" />
            <sliceName value="laboratory" />
            <short value="A mandatory code, to identify this observation as being Lab related." />
            <min value="1" />
            <max value="1" />
            <mustSupport value="true" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.category:laboratory.coding.system">
            <path value="Observation.category.coding.system" />
            <fixedUri value="http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.category:laboratory.coding.code">
            <path value="Observation.category.coding.code" />
            <fixedCode value="laboratory" />
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.code">
            <path value="Observation.code" />
            <short value="The type of lab related observation (code / type)." />
            <mustSupport value="true" />
            <binding>
                <strength value="preferred" />
                <description value="A code from the SNOMED Clinical Terminology UK coding system regarding laboratory medicine test results" />
                <valueSet value="https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/ValueSet/UKCore-PathologyAndLaboratoryMedicineObservables" />
            </binding>
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.subject">
            <path value="Observation.subject" />
            <type>
                <code value="Reference" />
                <targetProfile value="http://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/Patient" />
            </type>
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.bodySite">
            <path value="Observation.bodySite" />
            <binding>
                <strength value="preferred" />
            </binding>
        </element>
        <element id="Observation.method">
            <path value="Observation.method" />
            <binding>
                <strength value="preferred" />
            </binding>
        </element>
    </differential>
</StructureDefinition>

JSON View

{
    "resourceType": "StructureDefinition",
    "id": "UKCore-Observation-Lab",
    "url": "https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/StructureDefinition/UKCore-Observation-Lab",
    "version": "2.0.1",
    "name": "UKCoreObservationLab",
    "title": "UK Core Observation Lab",
    "status": "active",
    "date": "2024-07-23",
    "publisher": "HL7 UK",
    "contact":  [
        {
            "name": "HL7 UK",
            "telecom":  [
                {
                    "system": "email",
                    "value": "ukcore@hl7.org.uk",
                    "use": "work",
                    "rank": 1
                }
            ]
        }
    ],
    "description": "This profile defines the UK constraints and extensions on the International FHIR resource [Observation](https://hl7.org/fhir/R4/Observation.html), in order to represent an individual laboratory test and result value. These tests can be grouped together using the UKCore-Observation-Group-Lab profile.",
    "purpose": "To provide the minimum expectations for each individual laboratory test.",
    "copyright": "Copyright © 2021+ HL7 UK Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the \"License\"); you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. You may obtain a copy of the License at  http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software distributed under the License is distributed on an \"AS IS\" BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. See the License for the specific language governing permissions and limitations under the License. HL7® FHIR® standard Copyright © 2011+ HL7 The HL7® FHIR® standard is used under the FHIR license. You may obtain a copy of the FHIR license at  https://www.hl7.org/fhir/license.html.",
    "fhirVersion": "4.0.1",
    "kind": "resource",
    "abstract": false,
    "type": "Observation",
    "baseDefinition": "http://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/Observation",
    "derivation": "constraint",
    "differential": {
        "element":  [
            {
                "id": "Observation",
                "path": "Observation",
                "constraint":  [
                    {
                        "key": "ukcore-obs-lab-001",
                        "severity": "warning",
                        "human": "Either `value`, `dataAbsentReason` or `note` SHOULD be populated",
                        "expression": "value.exists() or dataAbsentReason.exists() or note.exists()"
                    }
                ]
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5",
                "path": "Observation.extension",
                "sliceName": "triggeredByR5",
                "short": "Triggering observation(s). This is a R5 backport.",
                "type":  [
                    {
                        "code": "Extension",
                        "profile":  [
                            "http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.triggeredBy"
                        ]
                    }
                ]
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation",
                "path": "Observation.extension.extension",
                "sliceName": "observation"
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:observation.value[x]",
                "path": "Observation.extension.extension.value[x]",
                "short": "Triggering observation.",
                "definition": "A reference to the triggering observation."
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type",
                "path": "Observation.extension.extension",
                "sliceName": "type"
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:type.value[x]",
                "path": "Observation.extension.extension.value[x]",
                "short": "The type of trigger. Reflex | Repeat | Re-run",
                "definition": "The type of trigger. Reflex | Repeat | Re-run"
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason",
                "path": "Observation.extension.extension",
                "sliceName": "reason"
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:triggeredByR5.extension:reason.value[x]",
                "path": "Observation.extension.extension.value[x]",
                "short": "Reason that the observation was triggered.",
                "definition": "Provides the reason why this observation was performed as a result of the observation referenced."
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.extension:bodyStructureR5",
                "path": "Observation.extension",
                "sliceName": "bodyStructureR5",
                "short": "Observed body structure. This is a R5 backport.",
                "type":  [
                    {
                        "code": "Extension",
                        "profile":  [
                            "http://hl7.org/fhir/5.0/StructureDefinition/extension-Observation.bodyStructure"
                        ]
                    }
                ]
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.status",
                "path": "Observation.status",
                "short": "The status of the result value.",
                "mustSupport": true
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.category",
                "path": "Observation.category",
                "slicing": {
                    "discriminator":  [
                        {
                            "type": "value",
                            "path": "coding.code"
                        }
                    ],
                    "rules": "open"
                },
                "short": "A code that classifies the general type of observation being made.",
                "min": 1,
                "mustSupport": true
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.category:laboratory",
                "path": "Observation.category",
                "sliceName": "laboratory",
                "short": "A mandatory code, to identify this observation as being Lab related.",
                "min": 1,
                "max": "1",
                "mustSupport": true
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.category:laboratory.coding.system",
                "path": "Observation.category.coding.system",
                "fixedUri": "http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category"
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.category:laboratory.coding.code",
                "path": "Observation.category.coding.code",
                "fixedCode": "laboratory"
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.code",
                "path": "Observation.code",
                "short": "The type of lab related observation (code / type).",
                "mustSupport": true,
                "binding": {
                    "strength": "preferred",
                    "description": "A code from the SNOMED Clinical Terminology UK coding system regarding laboratory medicine test results",
                    "valueSet": "https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/ValueSet/UKCore-PathologyAndLaboratoryMedicineObservables"
                }
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.subject",
                "path": "Observation.subject",
                "type":  [
                    {
                        "code": "Reference",
                        "targetProfile":  [
                            "http://hl7.org/fhir/StructureDefinition/Patient"
                        ]
                    }
                ]
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.bodySite",
                "path": "Observation.bodySite",
                "binding": {
                    "strength": "preferred"
                }
            },
            {
                "id": "Observation.method",
                "path": "Observation.method",
                "binding": {
                    "strength": "preferred"
                }
            }
        ]
    }
}

Feedback

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Report issue for UKCore-Observation-Lab, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Examples

Example Usage Scenarios

The following are example usage scenarios for the UK Core Observation profile:

Query and retrieve a patient's laboratory observations
Record or update a patient's laboratory observations

The Observation-Lab profile is for individual laboratory tests (Observation-Lab) which may form a larger set of tests, for example a urea and electrolyte test that contains many sub tests, or as a single test, for example Serum ferritin level.

The workflow below shows a possible way to group a set of related laboratory observations into the derived Profile UKCore-Observation-Group-Lab, which is then referenced within a diagnostic report. Seperate laboratory observations MAY be directly referenced within the diagnostic report.

Depending upon the countries or trusts workflow, an alternative is to have any separate laboratory observations referenced in a Profile UKCore-Observation-Group-Lab before being referenced in the diagnostic report. Although this creates extra resources it standardises the workflow.

Derived Profiles Lab Example Extra Group

Profile Specific Implementation Guidance:

Mandatory and Must Support Data Elements

The following elements are identified as MustSupport, and it is expected that consumers and suppliers SHALL support these as per the MustSupport Guidance.

Element	Reason
`Observation.status`	The status of the result value.
`Observation.category`	A code that classifies the general type of observation being made.
`Observation.category`	A mandatory code, to identify this observation as being Lab related.
`Observation.code`	The type of lab related observation (code / type).

Extensions

More information about the extensions can be found using the links below.

Extension	Context	Link	Comment
bodyStructureR5	Observation	Extension UKCore-ObservationBodyStructure	This is a pre-adopted R5 element, for more details, see Pre-adopted R5 Elements.
triggeredByR5	Observation	Extension UKCore-ObservationTriggeredBy	This is a pre-adopted R5 element, for more details, see Pre-adopted R5 Elements.

Bindings (differential)

More information about the bindings to UK Core ValueSets can be found below.

Context	Strength	Link
Observation.code	preferred	https://fhir.hl7.org.uk/ValueSet/UKCore-PathologyAndLaboratoryMedicineObservables

for more guidance see the dataAbsentReason section below

Constraints (differential)

More information about the constraints on the UKCore-Observation-Lab profile can be found below.

Key	Severity	Expression	Human_Description
ukcore-obs-lab-001	warning	value.exists() or dataAbsentReason.exists() or note.exists()	Either `value`, `dataAbsentReason` or `note` SHOULD be populated

for more guidance see the dataAbsentReason section below

`basedOn`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to one of the following UK Core profiles:

`partOf`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to one of the following UK Core profiles:

`category`

This element has an open slice, differentiated by the value of Observation.category.coding.code, and MAY be used to differentiate the specific laboratory's speciality. There is one defined mandatory slice Observation.category:laboratory, with a fixed value, which SHALL be populated when this profile is used, and additional category code's can be populated.

`Observation.category:laboratory`

The following SHALL be used:

Observation.category.coding.system = http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category
Observation.category.coding.code = laboratory
Observation.category.coding.display = Laboratory

`subject`

The resource being referenced SHOULD conform to Profile UKCore-Patient.

`focus`

Where a UK Core profile exists the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to the profile.

`encounter`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to Profile UKCore-Encounter.

`performer`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to one of the following UK Core profiles:

`note`

The resource being referenced by Observation.note.authorReference SHALL conform to one of the following:

`specimen`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to Profile UKCore-Specimen.

`device`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to one of the following UK Core profiles:

`dataAbsentReason`

The inclusion of the coded reason for data being absent is optional, and not currently recommended, because the ValueSet defined in FHIR is of limited benefit to UK laboratory use cases. It is recommended that if a data absent reason is to be included, then a text representation SHOULD be used (i.e. Observation.dataAbsentReason.text).

Example of `Observation.dataAbsentReason` usage:

Table View

Observation.id[0]	UKCore-Observation-Lab-Sn-AbsentData-Example
Observation.status[0]	final
Observation.category[0].coding[0].system[0]	http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category
Observation.category[0].coding[0].code[0]	laboratory
Observation.category[0].coding[0].display[0]	Laboratory
Observation.code[0].coding[0].system[0]	http://snomed.info/sct
Observation.code[0].coding[0].code[0]	58571000237106
Observation.code[0].coding[0].display[0]	Nucleated red blood cell count in blood
Observation.subject[0].reference[0]	Patient/UKCore-Patient-RichardSmith-Example
Observation.performer[0].reference[0]	Organization/UKCore-Organization-LeedsTeachingHospital-Example
Observation.dataAbsentReason[0].coding[0].system[0]	http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/data-absent-reason
Observation.dataAbsentReason[0].coding[0].code[0]	as-text
Observation.dataAbsentReason[0].text[0]	Specimen unsatisfactory for evaluation
Observation.specimen[0].reference[0]	Specimen/UKCore-Specimen-BloodSpecimen-Example

Tree View

Observation

id : UKCore-Observation-Lab-Sn-AbsentData-Example

status : final

category

coding

system : http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category

code : laboratory

display : Laboratory

code

coding

system : http://snomed.info/sct

code : 58571000237106

display : Nucleated red blood cell count in blood

subject

reference : Patient/UKCore-Patient-RichardSmith-Example

performer

reference : Organization/UKCore-Organization-LeedsTeachingHospital-Example

dataAbsentReason

coding

system : http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/data-absent-reason

code : as-text

text : Specimen unsatisfactory for evaluation

specimen

reference : Specimen/UKCore-Specimen-BloodSpecimen-Example

XML View

<Observation xmlns="http://hl7.org/fhir">
    <id value="UKCore-Observation-Lab-Sn-AbsentData-Example" />
    <status value="final" />
    <category>
        <coding>
            <system value="http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category" />
            <code value="laboratory" />
            <display value="Laboratory" />
        </coding>
    </category>
    <code>
        <coding>
            <system value="http://snomed.info/sct" />
            <code value="58571000237106" />
            <display value="Nucleated red blood cell count in blood" />
        </coding>
    </code>
    <subject>
        <reference value="Patient/UKCore-Patient-RichardSmith-Example" />
    </subject>
    <performer>
        <reference value="Organization/UKCore-Organization-LeedsTeachingHospital-Example" />
    </performer>
    <dataAbsentReason>
        <coding>
            <system value="http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/data-absent-reason" />
            <code value="as-text" />
        </coding>
        <text value="Specimen unsatisfactory for evaluation" />
    </dataAbsentReason>
    <specimen>
        <reference value="Specimen/UKCore-Specimen-BloodSpecimen-Example" />
    </specimen>
</Observation>

JSON View

{
    "resourceType": "Observation",
    "id": "UKCore-Observation-Lab-Sn-AbsentData-Example",
    "status": "final",
    "category":  [
        {
            "coding":  [
                {
                    "system": "http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/observation-category",
                    "code": "laboratory",
                    "display": "Laboratory"
                }
            ]
        }
    ],
    "code": {
        "coding":  [
            {
                "system": "http://snomed.info/sct",
                "code": "58571000237106",
                "display": "Nucleated red blood cell count in blood"
            }
        ]
    },
    "subject": {
        "reference": "Patient/UKCore-Patient-RichardSmith-Example"
    },
    "performer":  [
        {
            "reference": "Organization/UKCore-Organization-LeedsTeachingHospital-Example"
        }
    ],
    "dataAbsentReason": {
        "coding":  [
            {
                "system": "http://terminology.hl7.org/CodeSystem/data-absent-reason",
                "code": "as-text"
            }
        ],
        "text": "Specimen unsatisfactory for evaluation"
    },
    "specimen": {
        "reference": "Specimen/UKCore-Specimen-BloodSpecimen-Example"
    }
}

`hasMember`

This element SHOULD NOT be used, as this profile is used to represent individual test results. Where an Observation is being used to represent a group of tests (with Observation.hasMember references), then Profile UKCore-Observation-Group-Lab SHOULD be used instead.

`derivedFrom`

Where possible, it is expected that the resource being referenced SHOULD conform to one of the following UK Core profiles:

StructureDefinition UKCore-Observation-Lab

Detailed Descriptions

Table View

XML View

JSON View

Feedback

Examples

Example Usage Scenarios

Profile Specific Implementation Guidance:

Mandatory and Must Support Data Elements

Extensions

Bindings (differential)

for more guidance see the dataAbsentReason section below

Constraints (differential)

basedOn

partOf

category

Observation.category:laboratory

subject

focus

encounter

performer

note

specimen

device

dataAbsentReason

Example of Observation.dataAbsentReason usage:

Table View

Tree View

XML View

JSON View

hasMember

derivedFrom

`basedOn`

`partOf`

`category`

`Observation.category:laboratory`

`subject`

`focus`

`encounter`

`performer`

`note`

`specimen`

`device`

`dataAbsentReason`

Example of `Observation.dataAbsentReason` usage:

`hasMember`

`derivedFrom`