Evaluation of the pre-analytical phase in the central laboratory at Mohammed VI University Hospital of Oujda

Abstract

In addition to using the most up-to-date analytical technique, a thorough preparation phase must come first in order for the biological examination results to be reliable. The pre-analytical phase is this important step. We decided to conduct a prospective and descriptive study within central Laboratory department of the Mohammed VI University Hospital of Oujda with the goal of evaluating the pre-analytical phase in order to take action on the primary causes of pre-analytical nonconformity. In the course of observing 310 samples, we found 214 instances of pre-analytical nonconformities, of which 62 had to do with the prescription sheet, 62 with patient preparation, 31 with equipment preparation, 37 with the sampling procedure, 22 with waste management. Following the identification of these nonconformities in the hospital services under review, a multitude of corrective and preventive measures were taken in order to meet the standards of International Standard ISO15189 and to ensure the best possible patient care. Indeed, these key initiatives include audits, ongoing education, staff awareness and support.