The introduction of a quality assessment scheme for extra-laboratory blood glucose analysis.
An external quality assessment scheme is described for on-ward testing of blood glucose by nursing staff using the Glucometer II/Glucostix system. This involved the distribution of two concentrations of glucose solutions to the wards at 2-week intervals. Initially, results were examined prior to the introduction of a formal training programme for use of the blood glucose meters when the hospital CV was 25% (low glucose) and 19% (high glucose). Some improvement was shown after 6 months, with CVs of 13 and 8%, and a greater improvement after 12 months with CVs of 6 and 8%, respectively. A ward report was designed to allow easy interpretation of performance by the participants in the scheme. The introduction of this report was well received and generated enthusiasm among the ward staff.
Hamilton
A D
AD
Department of Clinical Chemistry, Wharfedale General Hospital, Otley, UK.
Allen
K R
KR
Waters
A K
AK
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000032:analysis; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards*; D003124:Colorimetry / Q000379:methods; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000097:blood* / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education* / Q000592:standards; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D011934:Reagent Strips
D001786:Blood Glucose; D011934:Reagent Strips