RECENT FEATURE ARTICLES
Coping with change and driving innovation: an annual programme in focus
The CliniSys national conference was given an update on pathology networks and the roll-out of the Getting It Right First Time programme, heard the latest thinking from NHSX, and an opportunity to debate why innovation is vital. Matthew Fouracre reports from The Belfry.
Safeguarding healthcare against cyber threats and predicting data breaches
In all aspects of 21st-century healthcare, cyber security is critical. In this brief overview, Ram Vaidhyanathan explores the impact of cyber threats on the healthcare environment and shares his tips for better protection.
Formalin-free surgical specimen management: transforming the workflow
An innovative vacuum packing solution has been adopted in order to reduce formalin use and exposure throughout the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board in Wales, as the following overview of progress illustrates.
Faecal haemoglobin concentration estimates: how low can FIT go?
In addition to the changing technology used by the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programmes, FIT is rapidly becoming more popular as a triage tool for patients presenting with abdominal symptoms, reducing the immediate need for colonoscopy investigations. Here, Callum G Fraser explores the need for low faecal haemoglobin concentration estimates.
Multi-site haematology: consolidation and efficiency savings in Cardiff
The first multi-site installation of a new modular automated haematology platform is enabling efficient, secure cross-city haematology working. Fully validated and networked, the new system supports a future-proofed, integrated approach to service planning and delivery.
Diagnostics done differently: the solution to current staff and workload pressures?
With the increasing reliance on complex and expensive technology, and the loss of highly qualified personnel, Daniel Chapman explores how outsourcing can help solve the challenges faced by diagnostics.
Respiratory microbiology: BSMT meeting report on a day of inspiration
The 34th Annual Scientific Symposium of the British Society for Microbial Technology took place in May at the Royal Air Force Museum, Hendon. On behalf of the BSMT committee, Mark Wilks reports on a day of inspiration and excellence.
Statistical quality control: an overview of monitoring process with rules
In this sixth article in a series on internal quality control, Stephen MacDonald moves on from the detection of potentially medically important errors, to focus this month on the rules applied to monitor the control of assay performance.
Blood tests project puts Cambridge and Papworth ahead in IT interoperability
Order communications and results transfer have now been facilitated between different electronic patient record systems in Cambridge. Here, staff from Addenbrooke’s and Papworth hospitals discuss this digital revolution.
Large-format histology: promoting the popularity and benefits of technology
Siobhan Fairgreaves explores the development and use of large-format tissue processing technology and the benefits that it can bring to the service, staff and patients.
Recent advances in lung cancer diagnosis: impact on patients
A report from the Roche ‘Excellence in Lung Cancer Diagnosis: Impact on the Patient Pathway’ meeting held in Nottingham last February, an event supported by a wide range of experts from across the UK.
Role of fructosamine in diabetes: enabling tighter glycaemic control
Diabetes mellitus, in particular type 2 disease, is an increasing health problem associated with poor diet, lack of exercise and the resulting trend towards obesity, especially in the young. Monitoring glycaemic control is of vital importance, and new evidence suggests that fructosamine testing has an importance part to play.
Non-gynaecological cytopathology: a look in the current literature
Cytopathology practical microscopy workshops are a popular feature of the IBMS Biomedical Science Congress, and will be repeated at the forthcoming event in Birmingham this September. The focus this year is on non-gynaecological cytopathology. This diagnostic branch of cytopathology covers an eclectic mix of interest, as current literature confirms.
Point-of-care testing speeds up diagnosis for deep vein thrombosis
Neal Aplin discusses how the introduction of point-of-care testing to Swindon's Great Western Hospital Ambulatory Care Unit eased pressure on staff, leading to improved patient flow and shorter waiting times. In addition, this has been the catalyst for the introduction of further POC testing in the hospital to support patient triage.
Coeliac disease: diet, diagnosis, dermatitis and refractory disease
The autoimmune condition coeliac disease results from ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. It is, however, more than a pain in the abdomen as the following overview, and update on current research, indicates.
Statistical quality control: error identification and control procedure complexity
In this fifth article in a series on internal quality control, Stephen MacDonald focuses on the importance of the methods to detect, at an early stage, potentially medically important errors, which is the cornerstone of what is hoped to be achieved.
Leukaemia and lymphoma: an example of how flow cytometry aids diagnosis
An expanded portfolio of standardised in vitro diagnostic reagents has enhanced the work of the clinical flow cytometry laboratory, as recently published examples in a Beckman Coulter ClearLLab Casebook illustrate.
Platelet diagnostics: combined technology means improved testing
The investigation of platelet disorders is a major area of interest in haematology and haemostasis. The use of a range of Sysmex technology reduces manual intervention, simplifies processes, improves standardisation and benefits patients.
Sample inoculum preparation: a UK ring trial of the Inoclic device
Preparation of a correct inoculum is vitally important when performing antibiotic susceptibility testing. The Inoclic sample preparation device is intended to provide a standardised, reproducible inoculum that produces EUCAST-compliant confluent growth. Here, Anne Grayson and Charlotte Duncan present the results of a UK-wide comparative trial.
IBMS Congress under the microscope: a mix of practice and theory
In September, the biennial Congress will return to the International Convention Centre in Birmingham. While the main focus is on the comprehensive multidisciplinary lecture programme, workshop sessions also provide delegates with an invaluable opportunity to discuss cellular pathology and cytopathology cases with the experts.
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Upcoming Events
Lab Innovations 2021
NEC, Birmingham
3-4 November 2021
IBMS Biomedical Science Congress 2022
International Convention Centre, Birmingham
14-17 March 2022
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