pre-analytics Flashcards
What is the pre-analytics phase?
The pre-analytics phase refers to the period of sample handling before the samples are tested. It is crucial because it can affect the final test results and is where errors are most likely to occur.
What factors should be considered during sample collection?
Factors to consider during sample collection include the time the sample is taken, how it is taken, the container used, conditions of preservation during collection, and ensuring patient details and the request form are correct.
Why is sample transport important?
Sample transport is important because the distance between the collection site and the pre-analytical lab, as well as the conditions under which the sample is transported, can affect the quality of the sample and the test results.
What are the best practices for handling samples once they arrive at the lab?
Upon receiving samples, it is important to maintain proper storage conditions and ensure the samples are kept according to protocol instructions before processing.
How should sample processing be carried out?
Sample processing should follow protocol instructions strictly, ensuring proper speed, time, temperature, and the use of clean and sterile equipment.
What conditions should be considered during sample storage?
Sample storage should ensure that appropriate temperatures are maintained, as specified in the sample’s protocol or instructions.
What is crucial when shipping samples?
When shipping samples, it is essential to maintain the correct temperature, ensure proper boxing, and include waybills, request forms, and invoices as required for documentation.
What are some of the risks associated with handling tissue samples?
Risks include exposure to hazardous infectious agents, such as bloodborne viruses, neural and lymph-derived infections, sputum and saliva infections, aerosols produced by working machinery, and needlestick injuries.
What are the different Biosafety Levels and their purposes?
BSL-1: Labs studying infectious agents that do not consistently cause disease in healthy humans, requiring basic safety procedures.
BSL-2: Labs for moderate-risk infectious agents that require specific lab design and safety equipment, such as decontamination equipment and biosafety cabinets.
BSL-3: Labs handling airborne infectious agents with potentially lethal effects, requiring strict containment, self-closing doors, and filtered ventilation.
BSL-4: Labs for high-risk agents that require the highest level of containment, including air-supplied suits, and are isolated in dedicated buildings.
What are protocols and why are they important
Protocols are specific guidelines outlining the procedure for sample collection, handling, and testing. They ensure uniformity, safety, and accountability during the testing process.
What is the purpose of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)?
SOPs provide specific guidelines for ensuring uniformity and safety in procedures used for processing samples, ensuring consistent and reliable results.
What are the different types of blood collection tubes and their uses
Yellow Top Tube (SST): Contains silica, a clot activator, which separates serum from blood.
Purple Top Tube: Contains an anticoagulant to prevent blood clotting, allowing for whole blood or plasma to be used.
Why is sample traceability important in a laboratory?
Sample traceability ensures that each sample is linked to the correct participant and study. It allows the lab to track samples through their lifecycle and handle any issues such as missing details, ensuring data integrity.
What happens if a sample’s participant details are missing upon receipt?
If participant details are missing, the sample will be discarded. However, the lab works with clinical staff to ensure the missing details are corrected.
What are some common problems that can occur with samples?
Common problems include haemolysis, fibrin clots, or gel separation failure, often related to issues with the tube used for collection.
What is required for maintaining storage records of samples?
Storage records must include the study or department name, patient ID, date, and visit number. Any changes to sample storage must be documented on a box map, signed, and dated. These records must be kept for the duration of the study and sent with the samples when shipped.
What are the two ways of record templates used for sample storage?
The two types of record templates are the sample box map, which tracks sample placement in storage, and the linear record template, which is particularly used for refrigerated samples stored for short periods.
Why is it important to record the time a sample is received in the lab?
Recording the time of receipt ensures proper tracking and traceability of the sample, which is crucial for monitoring the time intervals and handling conditions before processing, thus ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
What should be done if a sample arrives in poor condition, such as with haemolysis or a fibrin clot?
If a sample arrives in poor condition, the laboratory must assess the problem. If the issue cannot be resolved, the sample may be rejected. The lab should also document the condition and communicate with clinical staff to determine the next steps, such as recollecting the sample.
What are the main features of a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory?
A BSL-3 lab is designed to handle infectious agents that may be transmitted through the air. It features biosafety cabinets, sealed enclosures, directional airflow, self-closing doors, and an advanced ventilation system to prevent the spread of harmful agents.
How are sample storage records archived once a study is completed?
Once a study is completed, the sample storage records, including box maps and linear record templates, are sent along with the samples when they are shipped. Any copies of the records are kept on-site for archiving, ensuring that proper documentation is retained for future reference or audits.
