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Inter- and intra-operator variability in the analysis of packed cell volume
C R Breheny1, A Brown1, I Handel1
1Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute, Division of Veterinary Clinical Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Hospital for Small Animals, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Midlothian, EH25 9RG.
The Journal of Small Animal Practice
|November 25, 2016
Summary
Operator variability significantly impacts canine packed cell volume (PCV) measurements. Errors in capillary preparation and reading are common, particularly among veterinary students, highlighting the need for standardized training to ensure accurate results.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Hematology
- Diagnostic Accuracy
Background:
- Packed cell volume (PCV) is a critical parameter for assessing erythroid mass in canine patients.
- Accurate and precise PCV measurements are essential for appropriate clinical decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence and sources of inter- and intra-operator variability in canine packed cell volume measurements.
- To identify specific stages where errors occur during PCV analysis.
Main Methods:
- Undergraduate veterinary students and practicing veterinary surgeons performed duplicate PCV measurements on three samples.
- Errors were categorized into capillary preparation or reading phases by a single author.
Main Results:
- 25% of students and 9% of veterinarians made errors due to inadequate sample mixing.
- 23% of students and 9% of veterinarians exhibited errors related to incorrect reading.
- Intra-operator variation was substantially lower in veterinarians (0.027 from mean) compared to students (-0.21 from mean).
- A significant percentage of participants (68.2% students, 91% vets) did not adhere to WHO standards for capillary tube filling.
Conclusions:
- Operator variability is a significant source of error in canine PCV determination.
- Addressing these variations through standardized training and adherence to protocols is crucial for reliable diagnostic results.
- Ensuring accuracy in PCV measurement is vital for effective canine case management.
