Quality of the pre-analytic phase in parasitology at Fianarantsoa, Madagascar

Abstract

Pre-analytical practices in parasitology laboratories guarantee the quality and reliability of results. Errors during this pre-analytical phase are the cause of errors in the laboratory results. Fianarantsoa lacks data about them. Objectives: To evaluate the quality of pre-analytical practices in parasitology among health personnel in the city of Fianarantsoa in 2017 and to analyse the non-compliances affecting the various stages of the process. Methodology: A cross-sectional and prospective study was carried out in the town of Fianarantsoa, which is based in Fianarantsoa. For data collection, a questionnaire was conducted with medical staff between January and April 2017 to assess knowledge of the pre-analytical phase in parasitology. The evaluation of pre-analytical practices was carried out via an observation grid at the laboratory level during the month of August 2017, as well as an interview with the personnel responsible for transporting the samples. Results : The quality control of the pre-analytical phase was estimated according to our study at 17.55% (33/188) in the health workforce. Various non-conformities were notified. The majority of the test prescription forms (>90%) were insufficiently completed. Samples were taken in the absence of a sampling manual. Most of the staff have not been trained in the pre-analytical phase, i.e. 30% of the laboratory staff and 61.03% of the prescribers. Conclusion : Many inadequacies at all stages of the pre-analytical phase were mentioned. The main causes are a lack of staff training and the absence of national legislation governing biological analysis.