A study of pre-analytical variables in clinical biochemistry laboratory

Objectives: Pre-analytical error decisively influences the total error and consequently the diagnostic accuracy. The following were the objectives for the study: 1. To detect the percent of pre-analytical errors in clinical biochemistry laboratory 2. To categorize these pre-analytical errors 3. To formulate corrective measures to be taken to avoid such errors Design and methods: Study period was for 3 months with documenting the frequency and type of pre-analytical errors occurring in the venous samples. Result: Average pre-analytical errors were 44.7% per day. Improper request, incorrect timing of sample, wrong tube collection and in-vitro hemolysis of samples amounted to the major proportion of errors. Conclusion: Pre-analytical errors occurring in each laboratory have to be checked. Such errors are not inevitable and can be avoided with a diligent application of quality control, continuing education and effective collection systems to ensure total quality patient care. (C) 2011 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.