PROFICIENCY TESTING

Proficiency testing is a quality assurance test performed at regular intervals

PROFICIENCY TESTING

1. All analytes that are reported must be tested

2. All machines in use must be tested

3. All different types of iSTAT cartridges are tested

4. Testing is done 3 times a year, about every 4 months.

PROFICIENCY TESTING The PT (proficiency testing) samples that we use are

purchased from the College of American Pathologists (CAP)

Two types are kits are used: AQ kits for blood gas machines and SO kits for co-oximeters

The samples are packaged in individual small glass vials and contain “unknown” values for all of our analytes

PROFICIENCY TESTING

All kits need to be refrigerated when received

AQ kits, for blood gases, must be brought to room temperature before testing

SO kits, for co-oximeters, must be tested immediately after removing from refrigeration

PROFICIENCY TESTING There are five separate “unknown” vials for each

machine

PT samples must be tested by those individuals actually performing the clinical tests

PT samples must be mixed in with other regular clinical samples

PROFICIENCY TESTING

Procedure for AQ kits:

Bring samples to room temperature before testing Shake glass vial several seconds using minimal

contact, with finger and thumb at opposite ends of vial

Break off top of vial and present sample to machine under “Other”

PROFICIENCY TESTING

4. PT samples for iSTAT should be run as regular samples.

5. Record results on CAP forms in spaces provided

6. Sign roster titled “Testing Personnel”

PROFICIENCY TESTING Procedure for SO kits:

1. Use samples immediately after removal from refrigeration.

2. Shake glass vial several seconds, using minimal contact

3. Break off top of vial and present sample directly to co-oximeter

PROFICIENCY TESTING

4. Record results on CAP forms in spaces provided

5. Sign roster titled “Testing Personnel”

PROFICIENCY TESTING After samples are analyzed all results are reported to CAP

through an internet site

Our results are compared to other participants using the same equipment and cartridges as us

The results can be judged as “acceptable”, meaning that they are within the upper and lower limits of acceptability as compared to other labs

PROFICIENCY TESTING Results can also be judged as “unacceptable” if they fall

outside of the acceptable limits for similar labs

All results are reported to the State of Kentucky, Cabinet for Health Services

Unacceptable results must be investigated and each action taken must be documented.

PROFICIENCY TESTING

Common actions to resolve unacceptable PT results include:

Recheck for clerical error Check PM and maintenance logs for machine Contact manufacturer for assistance Run calibration validation controls

PROFICIENCY TESTING PT results must be kept for three years.

PT results can be reviewed by accreditating bodies that survey the hospital, such as CAP, JCAHO, or state agencies

PT results are kept in a 3 ring binder in the dictation room, titled “SURVEYS” with the year that it was performed

PROFICIENCY TESTING PT results are reviewed routinely by the Blood Gas

Lab director, or designee,when received

PT results are also reviewed at intervals by our Medical Director, Dr. Stark

PT - It’s a quality measure to ensure accurate results.