Reduction in sample rejections at the preanalytical phase - Impact of training in a tertiary care oncology center.

Context: Major clinical decisions are based on the laboratory test results where preanalytical errors are an important cause of repeat collections in patients. Identification of problem areas and continuous training of phlebotomy staff are important tools in reducing these errors.

Aims: In this study, we looked at the most common causes of sample rejection in our setting and the efficacy of the corrective measures and training processes for staff in reducing preanalytical errors.

Analysis of laboratory sample rejections in the pre-analytical stage at an oncology center.

Background: Effective patient management depends on the accuracy of laboratory results. Sample collection errors constitute an important reason for repeat collections. This study was conducted at the laboratory diagnostic services of a tertiary care oncology center with a hematopoietic stem cell transplant unit to determine the common causes of sample rejections and see the effects of corrective action.