SOURCES AND MANAGEMENT OF PREANALYTICAL ERRORS IN CLINICAL LABORATORIES

Abstract

Preanalytical errors account for 60-70% of all laboratory testing errors, significantly impacting result reliability, patient outcomes, and healthcare resource utilization. This study reviews the major sources of preanalytical errors, their impacts on laboratory testing, and evidence-based strategies for their prevention and management. Common sources include patient preparation issues, sample collection problems, transportation challenges, and processing errors. These errors can compromise analytical accuracy through interference mechanisms like hemolysis, lipemia, and icterus. Management strategies encompass standardized procedures, staff education, technological solutions, quality indicators, and structured improvement methodologies. A comprehensive quality management framework that integrates risk assessment, performance monitoring, clear staff responsibilities, and continuous improvement processes is essential for reducing preanalytical errors. Emerging trends, including artificial intelligence applications, patient-centered approaches, and systems thinking, offer promising opportunities for further reducing these errors. By implementing structured approaches to preanalytical error management, laboratories can enhance result reliability, improve patient safety, and optimize healthcare resource utilization.