Bioquímica Clínica 01/06

Summary

This video script discusses laboratory quality control, specifically focusing on external quality control processes like proficiency testing. The lecturer explains how labs can assess their performance by comparing their results with those of other certified laboratories. It also covers external evaluation methods, such as sending and receiving standardized samples for testing. Key organizations like Controlab and the National Quality Control Program (PNCQ) are mentioned, emphasizing the importance of external quality control for improving lab reliability. The process of reporting, analyzing, and taking corrective measures to maintain high-quality standards is also outlined, ensuring accurate and trustworthy laboratory results.

Takeaways

• 😀 External quality control involves sending laboratory samples to accredited labs for comparison to ensure accurate results.
• 😀 Proficiency testing (ensaios de proficiência) is a key method for external quality control where laboratories analyze standardized, freeze-dried samples.
• 😀 Laboratories must compare their results with those from other labs to ensure consistency and reliability in their tests.
• 😀 Accredited external laboratories, such as Controlab and PNCQ, play a crucial role in validating laboratory results through proficiency testing.
• 😀 After proficiency tests, laboratories receive statistical reports with their performance data, which may include corrective actions if discrepancies are found.
• 😀 The goal of external quality control is to ensure that laboratory results meet expected standards and improve the laboratory's performance over time.
• 😀 External quality control helps maintain credibility and trust in laboratory results, benefiting both the lab and its clients.
• 😀 Laboratories should implement both internal and external quality controls to maintain high standards and ensure the reliability of their tests.
• 😀 Laboratories must follow a set procedure for analyzing proficiency test samples, ensuring consistency with their routine testing methods.
• 😀 Certification from external quality control programs is essential for demonstrating the reliability and accuracy of a laboratory's testing processes.
• 😀 Choosing the right external quality control provider is crucial, and laboratories can select from options like Controlab or PNCQ depending on their needs.

Q & A

What is external quality control in a laboratory?

External quality control involves sending laboratory samples to external laboratories for analysis. These external labs compare their results with those from the original lab to assess the accuracy of the testing methods.

How does proficiency testing (ensaio de proficiência) work?

Proficiency testing involves sending standardized, dehydrated samples to a laboratory. The lab rehydrates and processes these samples as it would with any normal test. The results are then compared with those from other labs to determine accuracy.

What certifications are required for external laboratories to ensure reliable results?

External laboratories must have valid certifications, such as IS-91 or other recognized accreditations, to ensure the reliability and accuracy of their test results.

What are the main steps in external quality control?

The main steps include receiving standardized samples from an external lab, processing the samples using regular lab routines, reporting results to the external provider through an online platform, and receiving a certificate or report evaluating the lab's performance.

What is the purpose of comparing results from different laboratories during proficiency testing?

The purpose is to verify that the testing methods used by the laboratories are consistent and accurate. If the results align within acceptable ranges, it confirms that the lab’s processes are reliable.

What happens if a laboratory's results are not within the acceptable range?

If a laboratory's results are outside the acceptable range, it must take corrective or preventive actions. These actions are meant to address the discrepancies and improve the lab's testing accuracy.

How does statistical analysis play a role in external quality control?

Statistical analysis is used to compare results from multiple laboratories. It helps determine whether the results from each lab fall within acceptable ranges and identifies any outliers or inconsistencies.

What are the benefits of participating in external quality control for a laboratory?

Participating in external quality control helps ensure that a laboratory's test results are accurate, consistent with industry standards, and trusted by clients. It also allows the lab to identify areas for improvement in its processes.

How long does it take to receive feedback after submitting results in external quality control?

After submitting results, laboratories typically receive feedback within 48 hours. This feedback includes a statistical analysis and a performance report on how well the lab's results match the expected values.

What does the laboratory receive after completing a year of proficiency testing?

After a year of proficiency testing, a laboratory receives a certification that includes a performance evaluation, which may include a score or rating based on the lab's accuracy and consistency in testing.