Quality management of pre-analytic phase (PPA) in microbiology

Abstract

In Microbiology, and like all medical biology disciplines, many efforts have been devoted in recent years to improve analytical performance and quality of biological benefit. However, the pre-analytical phase remains the least controlled. Pre-analytical phase is a complex process consisting of a series of steps that take place both outside and inside the hospital, and involves a multitude of actors outside the laboratory. The multiplicity of methods in microbiology and the large range of samples and materials used, as well as transport processes, are other features of the complexity of this phase. Pre-analytical errors are common and can taint all stages of the prescription pretreatment specimen. The quality management of this phase is the full responsibility of the biologist. It requires the development of quality materials to ensure the harmonization of practices and traceability, a continuing education program, a better definition of tasks and the management of non-conformities. The advent of an official text in Tunisia, the good laboratory practice guide (GLPG) is a very important step for the total quality management in a country where the accreditation process is still voluntary. It remains to the authorities to provide the means and resources to the implementation of the management system of quality and test their effectiveness