Using Sigma Quality Control to Verify and Monitor Performance in a Multi-Instrument, Multisite Integrated Health Care Network.
The authors developed a system-wide integrated network of instrumentation and Sigma-based quality control for fundamental chemistry, coagulation, and hematology analysis. The authors have based selection of Westgard rules for run management on a straightforward, Sigma-driven selection process. The network includes multiple hospitals and large regional clinic laboratories. Most hospitals have multiple instruments; overall there are at least four distinct instrument models active from each manufacturer. The authors have measured and monitored Sigma values in this network for more than five years, to verify and validate performance and to provide ongoing justification for rules selection and rules changes when necessary.
Laboratory Medicine, Geisinger Health System, 100 North Academy Avenue, Danville, PA 17822, USA. Electronic address: hhharrison@geisinger.edu.
Harold H
HH
Harrison
Clinical Chemistry, Geisinger Regional Laboratories, 100 North Academy Avenue, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
Jay B
JB
Jones
D019963:Clinical Chemistry Tests / Q000592:standards; D064790:Clinical Laboratory Services / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards; D019033:Delivery of Health Care, Integrated / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D006403:Hematologic Tests / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D059021:Laboratory Proficiency Testing / Q000592:standards; D011786:Quality Control; D017749:Total Quality Management
Clinical chemistry; Coagulation; Hematology; Multisite instrument system; Networked QC management; Sigma metrics