Temperature regulation and standardization practices of clinical laboratories in Karachi.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the temperature regulation and standardization practices of clinical laboratories in Karachi.


METHODS
Forty five clinical laboratories in Karachi were examined for observing the standard protocols for running a lab with particular reference to temperature regulation. A questionnaire to the effect was filled.


RESULTS
Among the 45 labs included, the mean complete blood count performed per day was 52+/-47. Only 5 (11%) labs had a temperature reader. Thirty (66.7%) labs had an air-conditioner installed, of which only 24 were found in working condition. Maintenance of instruments was carried out every 67.5+/-.30.6 days. The mean number of haemolyzed samples was 2.3+/-1.7. Control was available in 24(53.3%) labs, which was used daily in only 10 labs. Quantity of blood was the same in all the tubes in only 33(73.3%) labs.


CONCLUSIONS
Commercial laboratories should be properly registered and their quality standardized.
Adil
Malik Muhammad
MM
Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad.
Alam
Ali Yawar
AY
D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004780:Environment, Controlled; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006403:Hematologic Tests / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories / Q000592:standards*; D010154:Pakistan; D011786:Quality Control; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013696:Temperature