Review article

https://doi.org/10.11613/BM.2014.012

Harmonization of pre-analytical quality indicators

Laura Sciacovelli ; Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Padova, Italy
Ada Aita ; Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Padova, Italy
Maria Laura Chiozza ; Department for Quality and Accreditation, University Hospital, Padova, Italy

Abstract

Quality indicators (QIs) measure the extent to which set targets are attained and provide a quantitative basis for achieving improvement in care and, in particular, laboratory services. A body of evidence collected in recent years has demonstrated that most errors fall outside the analytical phase, while the pre- and post-analytical steps have been found to be more vulnerable to the risk of error. However, the current lack of attention to extra‑laboratory factors and related QIs prevent clinical laboratories from effectively improving total quality and reducing errors. Errors in the pre-analytical phase, which account for 50% to 75% of all laboratory errors, have long been included in the ‘identification and sample problems’ category. However, according to the International Standard for medical laboratory accreditation and a patient-centered view, some additional QIs are needed. In particular, there is a need to measure the appropriateness of all test request and request forms, as well as the quality of sample transportation. The QIs model developed by a working group of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) is a valuable starting point for promoting the harmonization of available QIs, but further efforts should be made to achieve a consensus on the road map for harmonization.

Keywords

harmonization; pre-analytical-phase; quality indicators; patient safety; clinical laboratories

Hrčak ID:

115762

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/115762

Publication date:

15.2.2014.

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