Maintaining Accuracy in Laboratory Testing: External Quality Assessments and Internal Controls

Summary

• Understanding the importance of both external quality assessments and internal controls in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results.
• Exploring the potential reasons for Discrepancies between external quality assessments and internal controls.
• Discussing the steps a phlebotomist should take when faced with such Discrepancies to ensure the quality of laboratory testing.

Introduction

Medical laboratories play a critical role in healthcare by providing accurate and reliable Test Results that aid in diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patients. To ensure the quality of laboratory testing, phlebotomists must adhere to stringent guidelines and procedures. This includes participating in external quality assessments and maintaining internal controls to monitor the accuracy and precision of Test Results. However, Discrepancies between external quality assessments and internal controls can occur, raising concerns about the reliability of laboratory testing. In this article, we will discuss the steps a phlebotomist needs to take when faced with such Discrepancies in a medical laboratory setting in the United States.

Understanding External Quality Assessments and Internal Controls

External quality assessments involve the evaluation of a laboratory's performance by an external organization or regulatory body. These assessments are typically conducted through Proficiency Testing programs, where the laboratory receives samples with known values to test and report results back to the provider. The results are then compared to the expected values to assess the accuracy and reliability of the laboratory's testing processes.

On the other hand, internal controls are measures implemented by the laboratory to monitor the accuracy and precision of Test Results on a day-to-day basis. This includes regular calibration of equipment, validation of test methods, and monitoring of test performance using control samples with known values. Internal controls help to ensure that the laboratory's testing processes are functioning properly and producing accurate results.

Potential Reasons for Discrepancies

Discrepancies between external quality assessments and internal controls can arise due to a variety of reasons, including:

1. Equipment malfunction or calibration issues that affect the accuracy of Test Results.
2. Human error in Sample Handling, testing procedures, or data entry.
3. Environmental factors such as temperature or humidity that impact Test Results.
4. Issues with reagent quality or expiration that affect the accuracy of Test Results.

Steps to Take When Faced with Discrepancies

1. Investigate the Root Cause

When faced with Discrepancies between external quality assessments and internal controls, the first step for a phlebotomist is to investigate the root cause of the discrepancy. This may involve:

1. Reviewing the testing procedures and documentation to identify any potential errors or issues.
2. Checking the equipment for calibration or maintenance issues that could affect Test Results.
3. Examining the environmental conditions in the laboratory that may impact test performance.

2. Corrective Actions

Once the root cause of the discrepancy is identified, the phlebotomist should take corrective actions to address the issue and prevent it from recurring. This may include:

1. Repeating the test using proper procedures and ensuring the equipment is functioning correctly.
2. Retraining staff on proper Sample Handling and testing procedures to prevent human errors.
3. Implementing new control measures to monitor and maintain the accuracy of Test Results.

3. Documentation and Reporting

It is essential for the phlebotomist to document the investigation process, corrective actions taken, and any follow-up measures to ensure transparency and accountability. This information should be reported to the laboratory supervisor or quality assurance team for review and further action if necessary.

Conclusion

Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory testing is crucial for providing high-quality healthcare services to patients. When faced with Discrepancies between external quality assessments and internal controls, phlebotomists must take prompt and thorough steps to investigate the root cause, implement corrective actions, and document the process for review. By following these steps, phlebotomists can help maintain the quality and integrity of laboratory testing in the United States.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.

Related Videos