(AI) LMGT_FINALS: Quality Assessment and Improvement in Laboratory Management

A collection of vocabulary flashcards focusing on key terms and concepts from the lecture on quality assessment and improvement in laboratory management.

Quality Assessment

A systematic evaluation of the quality of laboratory services to ensure standards are met.

Quality Control (QC)

Quantitative statistical methods that focus on the final product defined by producer standards.

Quality Assurance (QA)

Planned activities that provide confidence that quality requirements will be fulfilled.

Quality Management

Management activities determining the quality policy and its effective implementation.

Quality System

Structures, procedures, and resources needed for implementing quality management.

Statistical Techniques

Methods used in quality control, including mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation.

Total Quality Management (TQM)

A systems approach focusing on processes, teams, and exceeding customer expectations.

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

An element of TQM aimed at ongoing enhancement of practices and adherence to quality standards.

Six Sigma

A process improvement program aimed at improving performance and customer satisfaction through quality management.

Lean

A methodology designed to reduce waste and improve efficiency in the delivery of services.

Philip Crosby

Quality management evangelist known for the concept 'Quality is Free'.

W. Edwards Deming

A key figure in quality management credited with teaching quality principles to Japan's industry.

C. Joseph Duran

Quality management expert who advocated for continuous improvement and goal setting.

D. James Westgard

Applied multi-rule systems for evaluating quality control data in medical laboratories.

Accuracy

Closeness of a test result to the actual value of the analyte.

Precision

Reproducibility of results given the same method under the same conditions.

Data Population

Items that are being studied or analyzed at a specific time.

Quality Control Charts

Visual tools that depict quality control data trends and variations.

Mean

The average of a set of values, used to measure accuracy.

Standard Deviation

A statistic that measures the dispersion of a set of values around the mean.

Coefficient of Variation

A metric that allows comparison of precision and variability between different methods.

Random Error

Errors that occur by chance during testing.

Systematic Error

Errors that consistently influence observations in a single direction.

Trend (on LJ Chart)

Control values increase or decrease consistently over six days.

Shift (on LJ Chart)

Control values on one side of the mean for six consecutive days.

Pre-Analysis Phase

Activities prior to testing, including test ordering and sample collection.

Analysis Phase

Laboratory activities that produce a result through actual testing.

Post-Analysis Phase

Involves patient reporting and interpreting test results.

Laboratory Auditing

The process of examining laboratory operations for compliance and efficiency.

Sample Transportation

Methods used to deliver collected samples to the laboratory.

Sample Processing

Collection of operations performed after sample receipt leading to the testing phase.

Reporting Results

Process of communicating test results to healthcare providers or patients.

Biosafety Level 1

Minimal containment requirements for work with well-characterized agents.

Biosafety Level 2

Controls in place for laboratories handling moderately risky biological agents.

Biosafety Level 3

Enhanced containment measures for laboratories dealing with high-risk pathogens.

Controlled Ventilation System

A system ensuring air flows into the laboratory to maintain safety and containment.

HEPA Filter

High-efficiency particulate air filter used to trap airborne particles.

Biological Safety Cabinet

A ventilated lab workspace designed to protect users from exposure to pathogens.

Autoclave

A device for sterilizing equipment and waste through high-pressure steam.

Quality Improvement Programs

Strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing laboratory performance and service quality.

Error Prevention

Strategies focused on minimizing mistakes in laboratory processes.

Inter-Departmental Collaboration

Cooperative efforts between different departments to improve quality in laboratory services.

Patient Identification Process

Ensuring the correct identification of patients throughout sample collection and testing.

Laboratory Technology

Techniques and devices used to improve laboratory testing and results analysis.

Quality Policy

Formal statement of an organization's commitment to quality.

Organizational Structure

Defines roles, responsibilities, and procedures within quality management.