Identification of the Types of Preanalytical Errors in the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory: 1-Year Study at G.B. Pant Hospital

Abstract

Modern day diagnosis is heavily dependent upon reliable laboratory data. It is therefore pertinent to ensure credibility of the results emanating from the clinical laboratories. Remarkable advances in automation, sample collection, transport, and dispatch of reports have led to a drastic improvement in the performance of these laboratories. But there is long path to tread before we achieve 100% accuracy and precision. Errors arising during sample processing are classified into preanalytical, analytical, and post-analytical, depending upon their source and time of presentation respectively. The pre-and post-analytical phases of the process account for 93% of errors. These include inappropriate tests that have been ordered, improper sample collection, transport delays, and illegible handwriting on requisition slips. Although these areas are beyond the jurisdiction of the clinical laboratory per se, the credibility of the labs is at stake due to these errors. The labs have to bear the burden of the inconsistencies or incorrect reporting that can ensue because of these preanalytical errors.