In anticipation of the next installment in our popular “Dear API Abby” column, MLO asked readers to pinpoint a proficiency testing problem. Read below to see how different lab professionals answered!
When asked “While reviewing proficiency test results for hemoglobin A1c, you observe your laboratory’s values are consistently lower than expected. Which of the following is the most likely source of error:”
64% said it was a problem with the most recent calibration
16% said it was a change in reagent manufacturer or formulation
2% said the results were not transcribed onto the result forms correctly
19% said it was an issue with the sample storage temperature before testing
Thank you to all who answered our poll! Be sure to check out the next “Dear API Abby” installment in our November issue!
