title: A study of pre-analytical variables in clinical biochemistry laboratory.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Pre-analytical error decisively influences the total error and consequently the diagnostic accuracy. The following were the objectives for the study: 1. To detect the percent of pre-analytical errors in clinical biochemistry laboratory. 2. To categorize these pre-analytical errors. 3. To formulate corrective measures to be taken to avoid such errors.
  
  
  METHODS
  Study period was for 3 months with documenting the frequency and type of pre-analytical errors occurring in the venous samples.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Average pre-analytical errors were 44.7% per day. Improper request, incorrect timing of sample, wrong tube collection and in-vitro hemolysis of samples amounted to the major proportion of errors.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Pre-analytical errors occurring in each laboratory have to be checked. Such errors are not inevitable and can be avoided with a diligent application of quality control, continuing education and effective collection systems to ensure total quality patient care.
authors: Department of Biochemistry, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Tamaka, Kolar, India. ashes27@rediffmail.com
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Ashakiran
authors: M E
authors: ME
authors: Sumati
authors: N Krishna
authors: NK
authors: Murthy