Introduction

Question 1

Accuracy

Answer 1

How accurate a test is to give the correct concentration

- analytical, not clinical

Question 2

Precision

Answer 2

Same distance/measurement every time

- could still use if you know systematic error

Question 3

Analytical imprecision

Answer 3

Cannot predict what the error is (random)

• is present in all tests
• large random error will render test nonuseful

Question 4

Analytical specificity

Answer 4

Could measure something not intended, so there is little specificity
- ex: when hemolysis impacts the results of a test

Question 5

Detection limit

Answer 5

Would rather have a lower upper detection limit, than too low a minimum detection limit
- easier to dilute a sample than to concentrate it

Question 6

Which 2 characteristics have little to no systematic error?

Answer 6

Analytical and precision accuracy

Question 7

Interpretation of results is dependent on ________

Answer 7

Reference range

Question 8

How are reference intervals established and what do they indicate?

Answer 8

• 60-120 animals of each species

- young adults, clinically healthy, represent animal population of the region

Question 9

Confidence interval

Answer 9

95% for the population

- 1 in every 20 animals will have a result that is outside the reference interval (even though the animal is healthy)

Question 10

Reference limit

Answer 10

Value of a test that is above or below the reference limit may indicate pathological state

Question 11

Decision threshold

Answer 11

Value of a test that is used to classify as positive or negative for a disease, or used to decide changes in treatments

Question 12

Quality of laboratory results depends on:

Answer 12

• quality of sample
• quality of analysis
• quality of laboratory records

Question 13

What are the 3 components of quality assurance?

Answer 13

• preanalytical errors (quality of sample)
• analytical errors (quality of analysis)
• postanalytical errors (quality of lab records)

Question 14

Sample collection

Answer 14

Preanalytical error

• prep of patient
• collection technique
• collection container
• anticoagulant
• sample volume

Question 15

Sample handling

Answer 15

Preanalytical error

• proper labeling
• appropriate temp
• prompt processing

Question 16

Analytical error

Answer 16

• method appropriate for species
• quality of instruments and equipment
• quality of reagents
• quality of lab technique
• quality control program (assessment of variations on results)

Question 17

Postanalytical errors

Answer 17

• transcriptional errors

- graphic quality of report

Question 18

In-house lab: advantages

Answer 18

• 24hr access
• short turn around time
• fresh sample

Question 19

In-hoes lab: disadvantages

Answer 19

• cost
• maintaining inventory
• training of personal
• quality assurance program
• reference intervals

Question 20

Vet reference laboratory: advantages

Answer 20

• personnel trained
• diagnostic support available
• appropriate reference interval
• more tests available
• cost per sample clear

Question 21

Vet reference lab: disadvantages

Answer 21

• sample may deteriorate

- turn around time is variable

Question 22

Human lab: advantages

Answer 22

Short turn around time

Question 23

Human lab: disadvantages

Answer 23

• reference interval may not be established
• assay methods may not be appropriate
• personnel may not know species variations
• price