Reference ranges

The reference range feature allows users to set up a site-wide index of reference values for use during item authorship. The idea is that, where there are common sets of reference values (e.g. clinical normal ranges), these can be established in the index and are then available for authors to select from as they build their questions. This ultimately avoids authors having to write out the set of ranges each time and avoids potential user error.

Creating a single reference range

The simplest way to create a reference range value is to build it directly into the index.

• Step 1 of 4

  Navigate to Settings > Reference ranges

  

• Step 2 of 4

  Click "Create new reference value"

  

• Step 3 of 4

  Type in values for "Reference" and "Value", then click "Create reference range". The Reference is the key (title) and the value field is for the value range to be displayed. 

  

  The X² and X₂ buttons can be used to create sub and superscript entries in these fields.

• Step 4 of 4

  The new reference range is now available for use.

  

Creating reference ranges in bulk

To save time and effort it is also possible to create reference range entries in bulk using a spreadsheet upload.

• Step 1 of 4

  Within the reference ranges area, click "Import reference ranges"

  

• Step 2 of 4

  Follow instructions to format the upload file. Or download the "Example CSV file" for a template. The file should be formatted as per the example shown in the image with a column of reference names and a column of values.

  

• Step 3 of 4

  "Choose file" and select your saved file. Click "Upload file" to submit.

  

  Should your column headers not match exactly what risr assess is expecting, you will be presented with a screen in which you can manually map your columns to the risr/ assess fields.

• Step 4 of 4

  Each row has now been created as a separate reference range.

  

Using and maintaining reference ranges

Once the reference range has been established in the index, it can be inserted into items during authorship. To access the list of reference ranges, use the book icon shown:

Select the appropriate option from the list:

This will insert the values directly into the question at the original cursor position:

Whilst it is possible to edit or delete the reference range from the index at any time, please note that reference ranges are not dynamic. If you update the value in the index this does not propagate to items in which those values have been used.