Reporting and recording test result in laboratory

Reporting and recording test result in laboratory 

Laboratory staff should be provide as much relevant information as possible. It should interpret the result of test correctly and use information in the best possible way to benefit patient and the community .report should be clearly and neatly written.

Standardization in reporting test results:

Standardization in the presentation of reports and use of unit is important because it helps in the interpretation and comparison of results, contributes to the efficiency of a laboratory service and also there is value in case of referral.

Recording result in the laboratory:

In district laboratories records of test results can be kept by 
-          Retaining carbon copies of reports.
-          Using  work sheets.
-          Recording test results in the register.
Whichever system is used it must be reliable and enable palinetis resuts to be found quickly ,Test records are also required when  preparing work reports and estimating the work load of the laboratory.
If carbon copies or work sheets are used these records must be dated and filed system atically each day. Separated registers each with its own cards can be prepared to record the results of hematological, microbiological, clinical chemistry , urine and faecal tests.
Resisters can also be used to record daily quality control information, daily checks on the performance of equipment.
Specimen and request forms should be checked for the criteria which make it necessary to reject the specimen.
State if the specimen requires priority attention e.g., C.S.F.

Work load capacity of the laboratory:

Work load capacity  of a laboratory must be matched to the number of staff and this level of training and to the size of the laboratory and its facilities. If the amount of work requested is beyond the capabilities of a laboratory this must brought to the attention of the medical officer with over all responsibilities for the laboratory .When work load is excessive the testing of specimen becomes unreliable and safety measures tends to being no.