Pre-analytical requirements.
Year: 2008
Type: article
Abstract: Correct test selection: a test must have the potential to alter patient management and have the specificity and sensitivity appropriate to the pretest probability of disease. Correct dynamic test procedure: dynamic tests may assist diagnosis and protocols must be readily available. Correct patient preparation: fasting, or other patient preparation, may reduce variability. Clear communication, to both patients and staff, of any such requirements is essential. Correct sample collection: the tube type (for blood) or container (for urine) must be appropriate for the analyte; there must be sufficient volume, avoidance of venous stasis, contaminants and haemolysis; and adequate labelling. Correct sample handling: the time and temperature before and after separation, and the centrifugation and separation procedures, must be suitable for the analyte. Accept/reject criteria must be defined. Methods require thorough evaluation of patient-related pre-analytical factors, and quantification of the effects of time, temperature, haemolysis, anticoagulant type and minimum allowable volume on sample suitability.
Source: PubMed Central
Authors: John H Livesey, M Jane Ellis, Margaret J Evans
Institution: Christchurch Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Medical Laboratory Technology
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W173675467