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Total laboratory automation: Do stat tests still matter?
Alberto Dolci1, Davide Giavarina2, Sara Pasqualetti1
1Clinical Pathology Unit, "Luigi Sacco" University Hospital, Milan, Italy.
Clinical Biochemistry
|April 10, 2017
Summary
Implementing a core laboratory with total laboratory automation (TLA) transforms hospital labs. This model ensures rapid, real-time results for critical care, eliminating the need for stat testing and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Laboratory Science
- Healthcare Management
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Modern healthcare prioritizes critical care, demanding rapid laboratory test results.
- Traditional hospital laboratory structures face challenges in meeting short turnaround times (TAT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a decision-making-based laboratory model for efficient hospital care.
- To highlight the role of a core laboratory and total laboratory automation (TLA) in achieving short TAT.
Main Methods:
- Transitioning from a compartmentalized to a decision-making-based laboratory organization.
- Implementing a core laboratory with TLA, integrating analytical platforms, track systems, and IT.
- Establishing satellite specialized laboratory sections for specific medical conditions.
Main Results:
- Achieving short TAT for all first-line tests through TLA in the core laboratory.
- Real-time sample handling and auto-validated results dispatch meeting clinical needs.
- Reduced need for stat testing due to efficient sample processing.
Conclusions:
- A core laboratory model with TLA optimizes laboratory efficiency and effectiveness.
- Active management of the total examination process, including pre- and post-analytical phases, is crucial.
- Middleware, guided by clinical governance, enhances process management and specimen integrity.