Usefulness of cumulative summation of differences method for determining APTT reagent suitability.

Objective: The Cumulative Summation of Differences (CUSUM) is a recommended method for determining the consistency of one lot of Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) reagent to another. This study investigates the usefulness of the CUSUM as a primary method for determining reagent suitability for APTT testing.

Method: Results for lot comparison, reference range and Ex-Vivo heparin sensitivity studies were obtained using the Beckman Coulter ACL TOP coagulation analyzer.

Strategies to increase familiarization and acceptance of electronic health records among health professionals and consumers.

There are many reasons an organization may choose to implement electronic health records. The challenge is to acknowledge the benefits and deficiencies of the electronic health record, to understand the driving forces for implementation and the barriers to it, and to effect change in the workplace and consumer behaviour. Indeed, one challenge is the determination of the organizational stance with regard to these factors.