Hamid H, A. Algadafi K, A. Ehweedy H, M. Aldrisi E. Assessment of Pre-analytical and Analytical Performance Using Sigma Metrics and Quality Goal Index: A Case Study on Liver Profile Analysis from Benghazi Medical Center. Mod Med Lab J 2023; 6 (2) :29-38
URL:
http://modernmedlab.com/article-1-143-en.html
Abstract: (519 Views)
Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the performance of the liver profile during both the pre-analytical and analytical phases, focusing on Sigma metrics and the Quality Goal Index (QGI) at Benghazi Medical Centre, a Libyan.
Method: Data were gathered through a questionnaire focusing on pre-analysis, including request form eligibility and sample quality. The study assessed the quality of 200 request forms and 12,256 samples by computing Sigma levels and defects per million opportunities (DPMO). Additionally, the study analyzed three months of records for both normal and pathological Internal Quality Control (IQC) levels. For IQC performance evaluation, Sigma metrics and (QGIs) were calculated.
Result: The study uncovered a high frequency of pre-analytical errors in laboratory processes. These errors primarily revolved around deficiencies in request forms, leading to 34.6% being deemed ineligible, contributing to an overall low sigma level of 1.99.
Sample quality was also a concern, as 30% of samples suffered from insufficient quantity, resulting in a suboptimal overall sigma level of 2.91. Notably, total protein (T.P.) at level I exhibited excellent performance with a remarkable sigma value of 5.57. Additionally, three parameters, including T.P. at level II, AST at level II, and ALT at level II, demonstrated good performance with sigma levels of 4.40, 4.37, and 4.03, respectively.
Conclusion: We found that the performance of most parameters, excluding those mentioned, ranged from marginally acceptable to unacceptably low. Addressing these issues is crucial for enhancing diagnostic procedures' overall quality and reliability in healthcare settings.