QUALITY CONTROL, LABORATORY ERRORS AND PREVENTIONS
PREPARED BY MR. ABHIJIT DAS
QUALITY CONTROL IN LABORATORY
Quality control in a laboratory means
making sure that all the tests and processes are done accurately
and reliably. It involves regularly
checking and testing control samples alongside patient samples to ensure that
the equipment and procedures are working correctly. This helps prevent errors
and ensures that the results are trustworthy and can be used for making important
decisions about patient care. By doing quality control, the laboratory can
provide the best possible service and help keep patients safe.
COMMON LABORATORY ERRORS:
Pre-analytical Errors:
Errors that occur before testing, such as improper
sample collection, handling, or labeling, can lead to inaccurate results.
Analytical Errors:
Errors that occur during the actual analysis, including calibration issues, reagent
problems, and instrument malfunctions.
Post-analytical Errors:
Errors that occur after testing, such as transcription
errors, data entry mistakes, or reporting errors.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR QUALITY CONTROL AND ERROR REDUCTION:
1. Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs): Laboratories should
have well-documented SOPs for each test, including sample collection,
processing, and analysis. Following SOPs helps reduce errors and ensures
consistency.
2. Training
and Competency Assessment: Laboratory personnel
should receive proper training and regular competency assessments to perform
tests accurately.
3. Calibration
and Maintenance: Regularly calibrate and maintain
instruments according to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure accuracy.
4. Barcode
and Electronic Systems: Implement barcode
systems and electronic data transfer to reduce transcription errors and improve
data integrity.
5. Double-Check
and Review: Implement a double-check system for
critical values and involve a second qualified person in reviewing results,
especially for abnormal or critical values.
6. Root
Cause Analysis (RCA): When errors occur,
perform RCA to identify the underlying cause and implement corrective and
preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence.