Overview

Question 1

Explain the following stages in testing:

• What is involved in pre-analytical testing?
• What is involved in analytical testing?
• What is involved in post analytical testing?

Answer 1

Pre-analytical testing: 66% of errors - majority of human error occurs here

• Patient preparation (ie has the patient been fasted if necessary)
• Test request
• Sample collection
• Sample transport
• Sample labelling
• Sample separation
• Sample storage

Analytical testing: 13% of errors - what the reactions are that occur on board and the issues that can be associated

• Analytical technique
• Staffing
• Equipment
• Turnaround time
• Quality
• Limitations

Post-analytical: 23% of errors - retrieval and sending of results

• Authorisation of result
  - Technical
  - Clinical
• Archiving of samples
• IT (eg issues associated with electronically authorising or sending results to clinician)

Question 2

Give examples of the different types of analysis?

Answer 2

Non-automated/manual: ELISA, Electrophoresis

Semi-automated: LC-MSMS with sample preparation, Electrophoresis

Automated: stand alone bench top analysers (random access, batch analysis)
continuous flow tracked systems (modular)

POCT: glucose testing, blood gas, pregnancy, etc.