contacts

collection

Upscale sample traceability at collection stations

  • Challenge

Sample collection has a substantial impact in the pre-analytical phase since it directly affects the lifespan of the samples.
At the collection stations, the phlebotomist collects and stores the sample to posteriorly send it to the laboratory for analysis. When samples are processed this way, no information is collected about the sample, nor is any consideration given to the storage conditions. This also implies that the first data point collected is only when the sample arrives at the lab.

  • Current Pains

This has some implications:

  • Inaccurate timestamp of collection time
  • Lack of data collected throughout the pre-analytical phase
  • Sample viability compromised
  • No physical traceability
  • indexor

With the indexor mini system, at the collection stations, phlebotomists, while doing their routine daily tasks, have an important role.

Immediately after collecting the sample, scan the tube to record the most precise time of collection and place it in the iRack. This allows not only proper placement of the sample in a vertical position as guidelines recommend but also a physical registration of the sample location in the rack.

This simple action enables traceability records right from the beginning of the samples’ life.

The various data points collected, such as where the sample is collected, and by whom, contribute to the establishment of a chain of custody – important to ensure the traceability and, most importantly, the quality of the sample.

If the indexor mini system is connected to the laboratory – it keeps an automatic and constant flow of information being delivered to the lab about the samples that are on the way, which could help with time and task management of the lab team.

  • Benefits
  • Better estimation of sample viability
  • Improvement of sample data in the preanalytical phase
  • Enhancing sample storage conditions
  • Less post-arrival at the lab tasks
  • Achievement of efficiency and accurate tracking of samples