Pre And Post Analytical Phases

The entire process of testing a patient's blood, from ordering through testing, reporting, and finally reaching the treating doctor may be broken down into three major parts.

1. Pre-Analytical

   
   

2. Analytical

   
   

3. Post-Analytical

Pre-Analytical Phase

• The pre-analytical phase of the laboratory testing process includes all procedures before the initiation of incorrect ordering, incorrect label, collection of biological material, specimen collection, storage of the collected sample and transport to the laboratory, and preparation of the sample for examination.

• Most errors affecting laboratory test results occurring the pre - analytical phase (46–68.2% of total errors).

  
  

  Post-Analytical Phase

• The post-analytical phase is the final phase of the total testing process, and this phase involves evaluation of laboratory test results; release of test results in a timely manner to appropriate individuals, particularly critical results; and modification, annotation, or revocation of results as necessary to support clinical decision-making.

• So, in this phase we must be sure of every word we write.High error rate (25 – 46% of total errors) has also been found in the post-analytical phase.