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Questions and Answers
What does accuracy in laboratory testing refer to?
Precision refers to the nearness of the results to the target value.
False
What is one pre-analytical variable that can affect laboratory testing?
Alcohol ingestion
Why is quality control necessary in laboratory testing?
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The Greek word 'kline' means _____ in the context of Clinical Chemistry.
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What can lead to pseudohyperkalemia?
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What is the primary focus of clinical chemistry?
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Which of the following can affect the sample level of potassium?
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Study Notes
Accuracy vs. Precision
- Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the true value.
- Precision refers to the consistency of measurements.
- Results may not be accurate, but must be precise to ensure both accuracy and precision using quality control.
Why is quality control important?
- Quality Control is important because:
- Expensive equipment and reagants are needed, which impacts the cost of the facility
- Patient's lives are at stake with the quality of testing
- Treating all samples as if they belonged to a relative
- Doctors rely on labs to provide accurate information
Quality Control Example: Potassium
- A hemolyzed sample can indicate hyperkalemia, even if the true value is low.
Pre-Analytical Variables that can affect lab testing
- Factors that influence the results of lab tests before analysis are referred to as pre-analytical variables.
Some pre-analytical variables include:
- Exercise and physical training
- Fasting and Food Intake
- Alcohol ingestion
- Tobacco Smoking
- Drugs
- Oral Contraceptives
- Posture
- Stress
- Circadian/Cyclical Variation (variations in the body's natural rhythms)
- Travel
- Age: Newborn, Children to Puberty, and Adult
- Sex
- Temperature
- Obesity
- Other Variables
Pseudohyperkalemia
- Falsely elevated potassium levels.
- Pre-analytical variables can cause this, such as hemolysis.
What is Clinical Chemistry?
- Clinical chemistry utilizes the principles of chemistry to study human body fluids and samples.
- The term "clinical" comes from the Greek word "kline," meaning "bed," referring to bedside medicine.
- Clinical chemistry is considered a basic science.
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Description
This quiz covers key concepts related to accuracy and precision in lab testing, emphasizing the significance of quality control. It explores the impact of pre-analytical variables on test results and the critical nature of reliable testing for patient care. Test your understanding of these essential laboratory practices.
