Quality Management of the Pre-Analytical Phase of Total Laboratory Testing Process: Monitoring and Control

Background: Laboratory testing is a complex process comprising three phases that include the preanalytical, analytical and the post analytical phase of total laboratory testing process. Preanalytical phase represents the most error prone phase of the laboratory testing process. Consequently, many problems arise mostly at pre-analytical phase of non-laboratory settings which are outside the control of the laboratory before the analysis of the submitted specimens. Objectives: To evaluate the monitoring and control of errors in the non-laboratory related preanalytical phase of the total testing process. Methods: A literature review of the continuous quality improvement and Quality Assurance (CQI/QA) components of the preanalytical phase of total laboratory testing process. Results: The prevalence of preanalytical errors is approximately 70% of all errors that occurred in laboratory diagnostics. Many of the variables are outside the traditional laboratory areas. Errors in the pre-analytical phase can result in misdiagnosis and mismanagement and consequently compromise patient’s safety. Errors presentation at this stage requires good communication and co-operation among all health professionals involved in the total testing process from the time a laboratory request is made until the sample is ready for testing. Review Article Akande; CJAST, 29(5): 1-8, 2018; Article no.CJAST.43874 2 Conclusion: In non-laboratory settings, continuous monitoring and control of the initial phase of the total testing process is critical in order to reduce pre-analytical errors so that the laboratory can achieve accurate and reliable results. Non-laboratory errors in pre-analytical phase can be monitored and controls by timely and effective coordination of health care professionals for improved patient's safety and reliable testing outputs.