Clinical Laboratory Management Quiz

Documentation and Staffing Requirements

• Visits to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) must be well-documented.
• GIDAs without clinical pathologists can have board-certified anatomic pathologists or trained physicians manage DOH licensed clinical laboratories.
• An adequate number of full-time registered medical technologists (RMTs) are required based on workload and services.
• Continuous staff development and education programs must be in place to enhance skills and knowledge of personnel.

Biosafety and Biosecurity

• Designation of a Biosafety and Biosecurity Officer is mandatory for risk assessment in licensed clinical laboratories.
• Adequate support staff is necessary, including laboratory technicians, aides, encoders, and receptionists.

Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) Coordination

• A senior staff member should coordinate POCT, ensuring quality control, machine maintenance, operator supervision, and training.
• POCT operators must guarantee accurate test results, proper machine maintenance, and report any issues to supervising staff.

Clinical Laboratory Layout Requirements

• Clinical laboratories must have sufficient space and facilities for a smooth workflow, including separate areas for each laboratory section.
• The clinical working area must accommodate various activities and allow functional relationships between different laboratory areas.
• Adequate storage for records, specimens, and supplies must be provided.

Specific Technical Requirements

• Blood collection areas must include appropriate equipment and facilities for patient seating and handwashing.
• Specimen collection toilets must be equipped and accessible for urine and feces collection.
• Pathologist’s workspace should be nearby, allowing visibility of the clinical working area.

Safety and Accessibility Standards

• Entrances to working areas should be positioned away from high-traffic zones to minimize contamination risks.
• Adequate fire safety measures per the Fire Code of the Philippines must be implemented, with accessible exit routes.
• Corridors in the laboratory should be at least 1.2 meters wide to facilitate staff movement and equipment transport.

Emergency and Hygiene Facilities

• Quick-drench stations for emergency eye and body flushing must be provided within 30 meters.
• All sections should include stainless steel sinks and appropriate waste disposal systems.

Infrastructure and Utilities

• Continuous water supply is necessary for cleaning and handwashing areas, with plumbing systems concealed for safety.
• Artificial ventilation is required to maintain proper air quality and prevent contamination, with directional airflow recommended.
• Lighting should be adequate to avoid glare and ensure clarity in all work areas.

Additional Construction and Design Considerations

• Windows in the laboratory must conform to the National Building Code and have insect-proof screens.
• Avoid using carpeting or similar materials in clinical areas to maintain hygiene standards.
• Secure additional requirements for handling specific pathogens according to risk assessments and biosafety guidelines.

Remote Collection Permit Guidelines

• Only DOH-licensed clinical laboratories without mobile facilities can apply for remote collection permits.
• Collection sites must include hygiene standards for specimen handling and must utilize employed RMTs.
• Specimen collection activities are limited to four to six hours, with strict protocols for specimen storage and transportation to maintain integrity.