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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.

In the first four articles of this series, statistical quality control (SQC) was introduced along with model properties of internal quality control (IQC) materials. Performance specifications were defined, chosen and implemented. In the next stage of design, we must ensure we detect non-conformity to expected performance. There is a fine balance between error detection and false alarms. This balance is maintained using quality control (QC) rules. The challenge we face in the laboratory is deciding what rules best suit each process. We need to:

During process stability, we expect our IQC to perform as shown in Figure 1a. Data points should be equally distributed across the target mean and around 95% of points are within two standard deviations (SD) of the target. Error can manifest itself in our processes in different ways.

Increased random error

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Upcoming Events

Pathology Horizons 2024

MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel, Bath
18-20 April, 2024

Diagnostics North East Conference 2024

The Catalyst, Newcastle upon Tyne
19 April, 2024

ECCMID 2024 - European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Fira Gran Via, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
27-30 April 2024

British Society for Microbial Technology Annual Microbiology Conference

UK Health Security Agency, Colindale, London
2 May 2024

EQA Reports: Interpreting Key Information & Troubleshooting Tips

ONLINE - Zoom
Thursday 16th May 2024

Participants’ Meeting: UK NEQAS Immunology, Immunochemistry & Allergy

Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield
24th May 2024

Access the latest issue of Pathology In Practice on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Pathology In Practice app from your device's App store

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