A STUDY OF CRITICAL ALERTS IN A CLINICAL LABORATORY OF A TERTIARY HEALTH CARE CENTER.

Dr. K.Rekha; Dr.K Bharathi; Dr K R Umadevi

Volume : V, Issue : VI, June - 2016

A STUDY OF CRITICAL ALERTS IN A CLINICAL LABORATORY OF A TERTIARY HEALTH CARE CENTER.

Dr. K. Rekha, Dr. K Bharathi, Dr K R Umadevi

Abstract :

 AIMS& OBJECTIVES : Our study was to analyze the prevalence of critical alert values and their significance. To assess the standard Operating Procedures and the guidelines for detection of critical alert values in this health care center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted in Madha Medical College Hospital & RI, Thandalam Kovur, during the year 2015April –2016 April. We studied the data of Critical alert values from the major disciplines of the central clinical laboratory viz: Clinical pathology and Biochemistry. The critical alerts of these departments were analyzed in comparison to the total number of patients investigated. The process of critical alert detecting, conveying and documenting was also scrutinized. RESULTS: It was observed that a total of 12,216 cases were registered over the one year study period. Of these total cases a 252 cases (2.0%) were reported to have flashed a critical alert value , of which 156 (1.277% ) cases from biochemistry and 96 (0.78%) cases from Clinical pathology were documented. DISCUSSION: The critical values in use are based on national published standards. These laboratory results indicate a probable lifethreatening situation for the patient. These values need to be reported and notified urgently to the appropriate physician incharge. Although virtually all laboratories have tests with critical limits, surveys have shown that there is no universal alert value list. CONCLUSION: This study reflects the need for increased awareness among both laboratory and health care service providers about the Critical alerts. The study emphasizes the importance of standardized monitored investigations especially in patients suffering from chronic metabolic diseases.