LMR: From Collection to Compliance: Preventing Errors in Laboratory Practice

Course overview

Proficiency testing (PT) is a critical quality assurance tool that ensures laboratory accuracy and reliability by comparing test results with established standards. Improper handling of PT - especially through unauthorized referral to external labs - can lead to regulatory sanctions, making in essential for lab directors, supervisors, and staff to understand and comply with PT referral rules. Ongoing education, including awareness of the TEST Act of 2012, best practices in specimen handling, and training in troubleshooting PT failures, is vital to maintaining compliance and improving laboratory performance. The following podcast episodes feature laboratory, patient safety and quality-related interviews that discuss these topics. Objectives: 1. Summarize proficiency testing and explain its role in ensuring the accuracy and quality of laboratory results. 2. Describe the risks and regulatory consequences of improper PT referral and strategies to prevent such events. 3. Identify best practices in specimen collection, handling, and testing that support compliance with PT requirements and improve overall lab performance.