Accurate And Efficient Specimen Accessioning In A Molecular Laboratory Information System: Importance And Process
Summary
- Specimens are received and logged into the Laboratory Information System (LIS) for tracking and identification purposes.
- Accessioning involves assigning unique identifiers to each specimen, ensuring accuracy and traceability throughout the testing process.
- Proper accessioning in a molecular LIS is crucial for maintaining a chain of custody, following regulatory guidelines, and ensuring Quality Control.
Introduction
Accurate and efficient specimen accessioning is a critical part of the laboratory Workflow in a molecular Laboratory Information System (LIS). This process involves receiving, logging, and assigning unique identifiers to specimens to ensure accurate tracking and identification throughout the testing process. In this article, we will explore how specimens are accessioned in a molecular LIS and why this process is essential for maintaining quality and compliance.
Receiving Specimens
When specimens arrive at the laboratory, they are logged into the molecular LIS by laboratory personnel. This step is crucial for ensuring that all specimens are properly documented and accounted for. The specimens are typically accompanied by a requisition form or barcode that provides important information about the patient, the type of test requested, and any special handling instructions.
Logging Information
As specimens are received, the laboratory staff enter key information into the molecular LIS, including:
- Patient name and date of birth
- Specimen type and source
- Date and time of collection
- Ordering physician
Barcode Scanning
Many laboratories use barcode scanning technology to expedite the accessioning process and reduce the risk of manual data entry errors. Barcodes on the specimen containers and requisition forms are scanned into the molecular LIS, ensuring that each specimen is accurately matched with the corresponding patient and test order.
Assigning Unique Identifiers
Once the specimens are logged into the molecular LIS, unique identifiers are assigned to each specimen to differentiate it from all others in the laboratory. These identifiers may include a combination of numbers, letters, and barcodes that are used to track the specimen throughout the testing process.
Barcoding
Barcoding is a common method used to assign unique identifiers to specimens in a molecular LIS. Each Specimen Container is labeled with a barcode that corresponds to the information entered into the LIS. Barcoded labels are also affixed to the requisition form and any additional paperwork associated with the specimen.
Chain of Custody
Assigning unique identifiers to specimens is essential for maintaining a chain of custody, which is a chronological record of the specimen's handling, storage, and analysis. By accurately tracking each specimen with a unique identifier, the laboratory can ensure traceability and accountability throughout the testing process.
Quality Control and Compliance
Proper accessioning in a molecular LIS is essential for maintaining Quality Control and ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. By accurately logging specimens and assigning unique identifiers, the laboratory can verify the integrity of the testing process and demonstrate that all necessary steps were taken to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Regulatory Guidelines
Accurate accessioning is required by regulatory bodies such as the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). These organizations set standards for specimen identification, tracking, and documentation to ensure the quality and reliability of laboratory testing.
Error Prevention
Proper accessioning helps to prevent errors that can lead to misidentification of specimens, incorrect Test Results, or other quality issues. By assigning unique identifiers and maintaining accurate records in the molecular LIS, the laboratory can minimize the risk of errors and ensure the integrity of the testing process.
Conclusion
Accurate and efficient specimen accessioning is a crucial part of the laboratory Workflow in a molecular LIS. By receiving, logging, and assigning unique identifiers to specimens, the laboratory can ensure accurate tracking, maintain a chain of custody, and comply with regulatory guidelines. Proper accessioning is essential for maintaining Quality Control and preventing errors throughout the testing process, ultimately leading to reliable and trustworthy results for patients.
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