Information Management

• What is information management in a laboratory context?

  It is a system that incorporates all processes needed for effectively managing data, including incoming and outgoing patient information.
• Why is an effective information management system important for laboratory directors?

  It ensures accessibility, accuracy, timeliness, security, confidentiality, and privacy of patient information.
• What are the important elements of information management in a laboratory?

  • Unique identifiers for patients and samples
  • Standardized test request forms
  • Logs and worksheets for data recording
  • Checking processes for data accuracy
  • Protection against data loss
  • Protection of patient confidentiality
  • Effective reporting systems
  • Timely communication methods
• What should standardized test request forms include?

  They should have complete necessary information such as name, age, date, laboratory test, and physician.
• What is the purpose of logs in a laboratory?

  Logs allow for recording data at the time of arrival of the sample in the laboratory and are used for traceability.
• How can laboratories ensure the accuracy of data recording and transmission?

  By having two people review the data description and using electronic checks that require duplicate entry of data.
• What is the definition of communication in a laboratory context?

  Communication is the process by which information is exchanged and understood by two or more people.
• What are the components of the communication process model introduced by Shannon and Weaver?

  1. Sender – original information source
  2. Encoding – converts messages into signals
  3. Channel – means of conveying the message
  4. Decoding – converts the signal back into the message
  5. Receiver – intended target of the message
  6. Noise – any interference that distorts the message
• What are the internal and external departments in communication flow?

  Internal departments are sections inside the laboratory, while external departments are neighboring departments in the hospital.
• What is the purpose of a management communication strategy in a laboratory?

  It is a plan used for the dissemination of information.
• What are the elements of a communication plan in a laboratory?

  • Define objectives and purpose
  • Use a concise message
  • Gear communication to the education level of the recipient
  • Identify structure and format of written communication
  • List recipients of laboratory communication
  • Identify methods of communication (written, verbal, visual)
• What information should be included in the laboratory record for specimen processing?

  It should include laboratory procedure, patient identification, physician's name, specimen collection date and time, specimen receipt date and time, examination details, and results reporting.
• What are the required contents of a test report according to ISO 15189?

  • Identification of test
  • Identification of laboratory
  • Unique identification and location of patient
  • Date and time of collection and receipt
  • Date and time of report release
  • Primary sample type
  • Results in SI units
  • Biological reference intervals
  • Interpretation of results
  • Comments on quality or methodology
  • Identification and signature of the authorizing person
• What are the general qualities of a laboratory report?

  Reports should be compact, consistent, clear, include date and time of collection, and differentiate between normal and abnormal values.
• Who is responsible for all laboratory reports?

  The laboratory head is responsible for all laboratory reports.
• What is the difference between documents and records in a laboratory?

  • Documents provide written information about policies and procedures.
  • Records are collected information produced during laboratory tests.
• What are the characteristics of documents in a laboratory?

  • Communicate information to all who need it
  • Need to be updated or maintained
  • Establish formats for recording information
• What are the characteristics of records in a laboratory?

  • Easily retrievable or accessible
  • Permanent information that does not require updating
• What is the purpose of a quality manual in a clinical laboratory?

  It describes the quality management system and communicates information about quality system requirements.
• What key points should be remembered about the quality manual?

  • There is only one official version
  • It is always being improved
  • Should be read and understood by everyone
  • Written in clear language
  • Dated and signed by management
• What should a quality manual contain?

  • Quality policy of the laboratory
  • Reference to all processes and procedures
  • Table of contents including lab description and staff education
• What is the purpose of a policy manual in a laboratory?

  It states the laboratory and institutional policy for guidance of those working in the laboratory.
• What should a policy manual include?

  • Dress codes
  • Food and smoking rules
  • Telephone use
  • Laboratory organization and reporting relationships
  • Procedures for writing, reviewing, and authorizing
• What are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a laboratory?

  SOPs contain written step-by-step instructions that laboratory staff should follow when performing a procedure.
• What are the key features of a good SOP?

  • Detailed, clear, and concise
  • Easily understood by new personnel
  • Reviewed and approved by the laboratory
  • Regularly updated
• What should an SOP include?

  • Title
  • Purpose
  • Instructions
  • Name of person preparing the SOP
  • Signatures of approving officials and dates of approval
• Why are good reference materials important in a laboratory?

  They are needed to find scientific and clinical information about diseases, laboratory methods, and procedures.
• What is the main goal of storing documents and records in a laboratory?

  The main goal is to find information when it is needed.
• What factors influence record retention in a laboratory?

  • Length of time needed for access
  • Government requirements for retention times
  • Ongoing research needs
  • Time interval between assessments or audits
• What is a Laboratory Information System (LIS)?

  It is a computer network for receiving, processing, and storing laboratory data and information.
• What are the components of an LIS?

  1. User interface
  2. Request entry
  3. Data entry
  4. Data storage
  5. System security
  6. Barcoding
  7. Interface
  8. Manual procedures
  9. System maintenance

  10. Disaster recovery
• What information can be provided by an LIS?

  • Patient demographics
  • Work lists for tests
  • Data retrieval and patient results
  • Quality control analysis
  • Quality assurance reports
  • Management reports
  • Encoding systems
• What are the advantages of computerized systems in a laboratory?

  • Error reduction
  • Quality control management
  • Data searching options
  • Access to patient information
  • Report generation
  • Improved patient confidentiality
  • Financial management
  • Integration with external sites
• What are the disadvantages of computerized systems in a laboratory?

  • Training requirements
  • Time to adapt to new systems
  • Cost implications
  • Physical restrictions
  • Need for backup systems
• What is the course code for Laboratory Management at Our Lady of Fatima University?

  LMGT 221
• What are the main topics covered in the Laboratory Management course?

  • Overview of Information Management
  • Lab Communication
  • Documents and Records
  • Important Docs in the Clinical Lab
  • Laboratory Information System (LIS)
  • Advantages and Disadvantages of Computerized LIS
• What is the expected outcome regarding communication skills for students in this unit?

  Students are expected to develop proper communication skills and work ethics.
• How does organized communication impact laboratory operations?

  It correlates efficient workflow and laboratory operations.
• What should students be able to identify regarding policy and procedure manuals?

  Students should be able to identify the basic contents of policy and procedure manuals.
• What are students expected to discuss about laboratory documents and records?

  Students are expected to discuss the laboratory documents and lab records.