Unreliable Automated Complete Blood Count Results: Causes, Recognition, and Resolution.
Publication/Presentation Date
9-1-2022
Abstract
Automated hematology analyzers generate accurate complete blood counts (CBC) results on nearly all specimens. However, every laboratory encounters, at times, some specimens that yield no or inaccurate result(s) for one or more CBC parameters even when the analyzer is functioning properly and the manufacturer's instructions are followed to the letter. Inaccurate results, which may adversely affect patient care, are clinically unreliable and require the attention of laboratory professionals. Laboratory professionals must recognize unreliable results, determine the possible cause(s), and be acquainted with the ways to obtain reliable results on such specimens. We present a concise overview of the known causes of unreliable automated CBC results, ways to recognize them, and means commonly utilized to obtain reliable results. Some examples of unreliable automated CBC results are also illustrated. Pertinent analyzer-specific information can be found in the manufacturers' operating manuals.
Volume
42
Issue
5
First Page
515
Last Page
530
ISSN
2234-3814
Published In/Presented At
Gulati, G., Uppal, G., & Gong, J. (2022). Unreliable Automated Complete Blood Count Results: Causes, Recognition, and Resolution. Annals of laboratory medicine, 42(5), 515–530. https://doi.org/10.3343/alm.2022.42.5.515
Disciplines
Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
PubMedID
35470271
Department(s)
Administration and Leadership
Document Type
Article