Automated Instrumentation Flashcards
the process whereby an analytical instrument performs many tests with only minimal involvement of an alayst; also defined as the controlled operation of an apparatus, process, or system by mechanical or electronic devices without human intervention
automation
a type of analysis in which any specimen, by a command to the processing system, is analyzed by any available process in or out of sequence with other specimens and without regard to their initial order
random-access analysis
a type of analysis in which many specimens are processed in the same analytical session or “run”
batch analysis
a type of analysis in which each specimen in a batch passes through the same continuous stream at the same rate and is subjected to the same analytical reactions
continuous-flow analysis
a type of analysis in which each specimen in a batch has its own physical and chemical space separate from every other specimen
discrete analysis
a type of analysis in which each specimen in a batch enters the analytical process one after another, and each results or set of results emerges in the same order as the specimens are entered
sequential analysis
allows two-way communication via computer linkage between the laboratory information system (LIS) and any online instrument
bidirectional interface
prescribed steps performed to establish testing parameters and instrument conditions that provide precise and accurate results
calibration
the transport of a quantity of analyte or reagent from one specimen reaction into and contaminating a subsequent one
carryover
software programs designed to assess instrument function and to report malfunctions to operator
diagnostic programs
time during which instrument is not capable of producing patient results that can be reported
downtime
computerized system that transmits many types of laboratory information, including work lists and patient test results. more complex systems allow bidirectional communication between laboratory and patient care units.
laboratory information systems
a mode of testing in which the analysis is performed at the site where healthcare is provided
point-of-care testing
identifies names of tests offered by an instrument
test menu
a group of tests designed to provide info about specific organ function or disease process
test profile
typically refers to time required to produce test results once sample arrives in the lab
turnaround time
This is system in which the operator is able to change the parameters related to an analysis and to prepare in house reagents, or to use reagents from a variety of suppliers; flexible, less expensive reagents
Open system
This is a system in which the analyzer requires the reagent to be in a unique container or format provided by the manufacturer; time saving, fixes problems faster (broken instruments)
Closed system
Analyzers that allow a single tech to simultaneously control and monitor the function of several instruments
Cluster testing
The excess amount of sample that must be present to permit the aspiration of the full amount of sample required
Dead volume/space
The time it takes to produce a result once the specimen is on the instrument
Dwell time
A clinical laboratory workstation dedicated to a defined task and contains appropriate lab instrumentation to carry out the task
Workstation
The number of tests the instrument produces per hour while operating in a steady state
Throughput
This is 400 tests or less, low volume testing, MD office, clinic, small hospital
Low-throughput
400-800 tests per hour, AU 680, higher testing
Middle-throughput
Greater than 800 tests per hour, AU5800, highest, used in large labs
High throughput
The scheduled inspection resulting in minor adjustment or repair to delay Or avoid major repair and emergency or premature replacement (daily, monthly, etc)
Preventative maintenance
Examples of preventative maintenance
Change pump tubing at regular intervals, change membranes on electrodes in blood gas Analyzers, cleaning sampling probes and lines, and change motor brushes in a centrifuge
This is corrective, breakdown, or reparative maintenance restoring after damage; unscheduled
Repair
This is the process by high apparently unsatisfactory instrument performance is traced down to root causes, which permits the correct solution to be applied to identified problems
Troubleshooting
