Quality Assurance in Phlebotomy

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers key concepts, tools, and manuals related to Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Control (QC), and legal/safety documentation in the phlebotomy field.

Quality

The degree of excellence of something.

Quality Assurance (QA)

Processes for standardization, providing quality service or product, and the prevention of problems.

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

The process of monitoring and assessing all processes to identify those that need improvement.

Process Improvement (PI)

The identification of problems and the implementation of changes to prevent errors.

Failure Modes & Effects Analysis (FEMA)

A tool focused on the prevention of failures by analyzing what could go wrong, why it might go wrong, and the potential outcomes.

Six Sigma

An evaluation of pre and post analytical processes that monitors to minimize or eliminate waste by comparing effectiveness before and after improvements.

Lean Methodology

A method that eliminates waste caused by unnecessary processes and redirects efforts to customer needs, dependent on Root-Cause Analysis.

Root-Cause Analysis (RCA)

An investigation to identify trends and underlying causes after a problem occurs; required by TJC and performed in response to all SEs.

Quality Indicators (QI)

Measurable, well-defined, objective, and specific markers that provide information on the effectiveness or quality of laboratory processes.

Threshold Value

A level of acceptable practice beyond which quality patient care cannot be assured.

Corrective Action Preventative Action (CAPA) plan

A plan that defines what will change and when the change will happen once a problem is identified.

Quality Control (QC)

The use of checks and controls to assure quality and prevent problems before results are released.

Delta Checks

The comparison of current lab test results with previous results for the same test on the same patient.

Patient Records

Chronologic documentation of medical care given that aids in the practice of medicine and may serve as a legal document.

Test Catalogs and Reference Manuals

Online or physical catalogs providing patient preparation, collection information, CPT codes, and special handling requirements.

Procedure Manual

A document stating the purpose, specimen type, collection method, equipment, step-by-step procedure, and corrective actions for tests.

Safety Manual

An OSHA-required manual containing policies for chemical, electrical, fire, and radiation safety, as well as disaster plans.

Infection Prevention and Control Manual

A manual outlining policies such as hand hygiene and specimen handling that must comply with federal regulations and accreditation requirements.

QA Forms

Documentation on QC checks, including temperature logs, centrifuge maintenance records, and event report forms.

Risk Management

Internal process aimed to identify and minimize situations that pose a chance of loss or injury to patients and employees.

Sexual Harassment

A form of sex discrimination involving persistent or offensive conduct related to a person’s sex that negatively affects their job.