102 - Automation and lab errors prevention
Autor(s): D. Giavarina, G. Soffiati
Issue: RIMeL - IJLaM, Vol. 2, N. 3-S1, 2006 (MAF Servizi srl ed.)
Page(s): 102-108
The sentence “To err is human” summarize the human nature of the error. Therefore, reducing human components would help to reduce the number of total error. We can define the error as a failure of a planned action to be completed as intended or the use of the wrong plan to achieve the aim. Automation acts in the first cause of error, almost in all the phases, from preanalytical (sample identification, accessioning, etc.), to postanalytical (autovalidation, check, turn around time, etc.). The analytical phase was the first to benefit of automation, especially on the analyzers. Automation processes can help also the pre-preanalytical phase in the error reduction: the implementation of diagnostic algorithms and reflex tests is permitted by the integration between information technology and automation technology, improving the appropriateness. The integration between these two technologies is the keystone for reliable and safe diagnostic processes.