title: Experiences in establishing a PEPFAR-supported laboratory quality system in Nigeria.
abstract: The need to accurately diagnose HIV-infected persons and monitor their immune status and sequelae from increased access to antiretroviral therapy dictated the establishment of a quality assurance (QA) system supported by dedicated personnel, financial resources, and a close monitoring system. Assessment of laboratories and personnel in Nigeria revealed the need for improved laboratory infrastructure and training, including on-site didactic and wet workshops and the institution of a tiered QA unit of laboratory regional officers, focal persons, and site monitors who provided guidance and continuous monitoring. Quarterly assessments and generated reports guided corrective actions. A sustainable quality laboratory system was developed for the first time in Nigeria with funding from the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. With expansion from 7 to 34 comprehensive treatment sites, a tiered laboratory organizational structure with regional and site-based Nigerian quality control officers was developed. Measured improvements included reduction in deficiencies from 13% to 2%.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 W Lombard St, N449, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
authors.forename: Alash'le G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Abimiku
authors.forename: Talishiea
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Croxton
authors.forename: Ezekiel
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Akintunde
authors.forename: Bimpe
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Okelade
authors.forename: Joseph
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Jugu
authors.forename: Sam
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Peters
authors.forename: Patrick
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dakum
authors.forename: William
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Blattner
authors.forename: Niel
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Constantine
mesh_terms: D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards; D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation; D007753:Laboratories / Q000592:standards*; D008297:Male; D017056:Medical Laboratory Personnel / Q000193:education; D009549:Nigeria; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D011786:Quality Control