Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute Publishes Accuracy in Patient and Sample Identification

WAYNE, PA--(Marketwire - April 29, 2010) -

Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) recently published “Accuracy in Patient and Sample Identification; Approved Guideline” (GP33-A). This document describes the essential elements of systems and processes required to ensure accurate patient identification (ID).

Sheila M. Woodcock, MBA, FCSMLS(D), QSE Consulting, and chairholder of the committee that developed the document, says, “Proper patient ID is fundamental to quality laboratory services. An accurate test result on the wrong patient is at best of no value and, at worst, could lead to incorrect or harmful treatment or intervention. GP33-A provides guidance for health care providers so they can understand the importance of accurate ID of both patients and samples.”

Design considerations covered include

• Criteria for accuracy
• Differences in inpatient vs outpatient settings that impact patient ID
• Language and cultural considerations
• Standardization of processes across the health care enterprise

Guidance on system implementation and user training is included. Validation of patient ID systems/programs and ongoing monitoring as a quality measure are also covered.

This document is intended for health care providers who will design, select, implement, monitor, and evaluate patient ID systems.

CLSI is a volunteer-driven, membership-supported, nonprofit organization dedicated to developing standards and guidelines for the health care and medical testing community through a consensus process that balances the perspectives of industry, government, and the health care professions. For additional information on CLSI, visit the CLSI website at www.clsi.org or call 610.688.0100.

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