Objectives

This study will assess the effectiveness of educational and practical experience policies and procedures dedicated to the laboratory’s efforts in maintaining technologist skills in the performance of accurate body fluid cell counts and identification of other body fluid features. Results of this study will assist individuals, the laboratory director, and manager with areas to focus on for improvement and education.

The study will help management meet applicable Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), CAP Laboratory Accreditation, and The Joint Commission laboratory requirements for personnel competency requirements and consistency of reporting amongst staff.*

Data Collection

Technologists will access a series of online, whole slide images to assess their ability to perform cell differentials on Wright-stained body fluids and identify miscellaneous cells and inclusions in cytocentrifuged preparations. Participants will provide additional information about their competency assessment programs, continuing education, and professional background

Information will be collected from each site regarding minimum qualifications and experience requirements of their technologists, their ongoing educational programs and requirements, as well as relevant procedures and policies.

Performance Indicators

• Individual technologist score (%) based on a standardized competency assessment method to determine a technologist’s ability to identify various WBC types, microorganisms, and other cells present in normal and abnormal cases in comparison to consensus responses
• Overall laboratory score based on the facility’s individual technologist performance(s)
• Reports are provided at institution and technologist levels. A summary of responses to the general questions will be provided for participants

Program Information

To meet your staff technical competency assessment requirements:

• Each QPB10 order includes kits with result forms for up to 10 technologists
• Multiple kits may be purchased to accommodate quantity needed
• Result forms for up to 10 technologists (QPB10)
• Result forms for up to 25 technologists (QPB25)
• Multiple kits may be purchased to accommodate quantity needed.

Applicable Requirements

• CLIA personnel requirements (Subpart M, 42 CFR §493.1)
• CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program Checklist statements GEN.55500 Competency Assessment of Testing Personnel, and HEM.35566, consistency of morphologic observation among personnel performing blood fluid cell differentials at least annually
• Assessment of Testing Personnel, and HEM.35566, consistency of morphologic observation among personnel performing blood fluid cell differentials at least annually
• The Joint Commission Standards HR. 01.05.03, 01.06.01, 01.07.01, LD.04.05.03, and 04.05.05 regarding in-service training, continuing education, competency, and evaluation of hospital personnel

Shipping Schedule

D Mailing: August 5, 2024