Using an independent quality control software program, EZ Runs, to monitor quality control procedures for a bench-top coagulation analyzer.
BACKGROUND
Comprehensive quality control (QC) procedures are necessary to ensure accurate analytic method performance. Highly automated systems typically have inherent QC programs that facilitate performance and maintenance of QC procedures; however, for bench-top analyzers that lack internal systems, independent QC programs must be used.


OBJECTIVE
The goal of this study was to evaluate the adaptability of an independent QC program, EZ Runs (Westgard QC Inc, Madison, WI, USA), to the maintenance of QC procedures for a mechanical, bench-top coagulation unit and to compare the results with our current, manual, QC method in a qualitative way.


METHODS
A QC application file for activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) performed on a STart4 (Diagnostica Stago, Parsippany, NJ) was created in EZ Runs. Results were recorded and interpreted using this software package as well as the current, manual, QC method.


RESULTS
EZ Runs was adaptable to QC monitoring for the bench-top analyzer, and the program permitted identification of both random and systematic errors not detected by the manual QC system.


CONCLUSIONS
EZ Runs improved the performance and maintenance of QC procedures for this bench-top coagulation analyzer. The results indicated the need to improve staff training in assay performance and QC interpretation. In addition, use of the software program indicated that a multirule QC design was needed to monitor assay performance.
Friedrichs
Kristen R
KR
Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA. friedrik@svm.vetmed.wisc.edu
Young
Karen M
KM
D000818:Animals; D001780:Blood Coagulation Tests / Q000592:standards* / Q000662:veterinary*; D002415:Cats; D004285:Dogs; D011517:Prothrombin Time / Q000592:standards / Q000662:veterinary; D011786:Quality Control; D012984:Software / Q000592:standards*