IJSR - International Journal of Scientific Research

Dr Shalibhadra Shah; Dr Biren Parikh; Dr Ronnak kumari Jain; Rachana Shah

Volume : VIII, Issue : VIII, August - 2019

The External Quality Assessment Programme In Haematology – GCRI Experience

Dr Shalibhadra Shah, Dr Biren Parikh, Dr Ronnak Kumari Jain, Rachana Shah

Abstract :

Background: The attainment of quality services in a laboratory requires a comprehensive quality assurance program which includes both internal and external quality control material. External quality assessment scheme programs are accepted around the world as an invaluable tool by laboratories to assess the performance of their testing systems. Results are objectively compared to other laboratories, using the same methodologies for every parameter. Aims: The goal of this study was to review EQAS result from time to time in an effort to improve the performance of the laboratory. Material and Methods: Study done at Gujarat Cancer Research Institute and Hospital, Ahmedabad from March 2010 to August 2018. In the current study, our EQAS test results have been evaluated for the past 9 years. One EDTA whole blood sample for blood cell counts and 2 slides for peripheral smear examination and reticulocyte count were received quarterly in a year from AIIMS, New Delhi. The test results of all indices of blood samples and peripheral smears for cell morphology and reticulocyte count were analyzed and documented. Results: Out of 350 total parameters including peripheral smear examination and reticulocyte count, our laboratory got the satisfactory results in 345 parameters which means overall satisfactory results was 98.58%. Our outlier was only in five parameters which means unsatisfactory results was only 1.42%.Root cause analysis was performed and necessary action was taken. Conclusion: Participation in External Quality Assessment Schemes is extremely beneficial for the improvement of laboratory performance and quality of care. Evaluation of the survey results on a regular basis serves as a useful guide to assess overall performance of the laboratory. Standardization of analytical procedures, equipments and reagents, continuous monitoring of personnel competency and thorough investigation of discordant results significantly contributes to the delivery of quality diagnostic services.