Question

In clinical laboratory testing, how can we minimize pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical errors?
please i need a Complete, not brief answer (detailed)

Answer 1

Answer:

• The laboratory testing process is divided to three main phases.
• They are Pre-analytical,Analytical and Post-analytical.
• Preanalytical phase of laboratory testing includes ordering,collection,handling transportation and reception of the samples.
• Analytical phase includes the testing of the specimen collected
• Post-analytical phase includes interpretation of the results,generating a report,storage,follow up and retesting if needed
• An error in laboratory is any defect occuring in any of these phases resulting the quality of results.
• It affects the patient by causing a misdiagnosis and wrong treatment.
• The errors may also lead to a fatal reaction.So minimizing errors during a lab test is very important.

In order to avoid pre-analytical errors these steps can be taken

• Be aware of the current developments in testing
• Technological advances such as barcoding,radiofrequency identification or wristbands can help the patient identification.
• Standardizing the collection products helps reduce errors.
• For example components of blood collection tubes like tube walls,anticoagulants,clot activators can affect the accuracy.So it should always be standardized.
• when collecting specimen the individual should confirm the prerequisites like last food intake,time of a drug intake etc.Labelling should contain two patient identifiers.
• inadequate specimen volume or contamination of the specimen should be avoided
• Written protocols that explains all the standard procedures helps to reduce error.
• Any new test equipment should be tested first.
• Special attention should be given while transporting the specimen.Improper temperature,storage also can lead to errors and to be avoided.

In order to avoid analytical errors these steps can be followed:

• The analytical quality can be improved by internal quality controls.
• New automated technologies can reduce the analytical errors to a great extend.
• Some type of antibodies may cause changes in measurements causing interference.So those informations should be checked before analyzing.
• Equipments should be checked for any malfunction.
• Procedures for analyzing th especimen should be strictly followerd to reduce errors.
• External Quality Assessment helps monitor the quality status of internal procedures.

Post-analytical errors can be minimized by

• Proper validation of the reports should be done
• Processing the results to a report form should be assessed.
• Avoiding mininterpretation of the results.
• Critical results must be reported promptly.
• Transcription errors should be avoided.
• Turn around time is important.The results should be delivered on time.

Please Rate My Answer............Thank..........u...