Evaluation of between-sample carryover on an automated coagulation instrument: recommendations for quality control procedures.
OBJECTIVE
To assess sample probe carryover levels in a modern automated coagulation analyzer.


METHODS
Washoe Medical Center Clinical Laboratory, Reno, Nevada.


METHODS
Analysis of the relative degree of prolongation of coagulation assays using a sequential series of samples following a sample with inherent or added components with the potential for prolonging or accelerating coagulation when significant sample probe carryover is present.


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
The extent of prolongation or acceleration of APTT or PT assays.


RESULTS
The first sample positions assayed subsequent to specimans with potential accelerating or prolonging coagulation activity were affected by 3.9% to 17.8%.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggest that a potential exists in automated sampling coagulation analyzers. A mechanism for quality control analysis of carryover should be incorporated in automated probe coagulation analyzers. A suggested "1-2-1" control sequence is discussed as a possible quality assurance tool for measuring carryover within individual assay runs.
Smith
C
C
Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, University of Nevada, Reno, USA.
Furman
A
A
D000925:Anticoagulants; D001331:Automation; D015982:Bias; D001780:Blood Coagulation Tests / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards*; D004866:Equipment Contamination / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006493:Heparin; D006801:Humans; D011786:Quality Control