Preanalytical errors take place before testing is performed on a specimen. This means they occur before the sample reaches the testing phase in a laboratory setting. Preanalytical errors can include mistakes like mislabeling the specimen, improper specimen collection, or inadequate transportation and storage of the sample.
Examples of preanalytical errors include:
1. Mislabeling the specimen with incorrect patient information, leading to inaccurate test results.
2. Using the wrong type of tube or container for collecting the specimen, which can affect the quality of the sample.
3. Failing to properly store the specimen at the correct temperature, potentially causing degradation of the sample and inaccurate test results.
4. Delaying the transportation of the specimen to the laboratory, which may alter certain test values.
Overall, preanalytical errors are crucial to address because they can significantly impact the accuracy and reliability of test results, potentially leading to incorrect diagnoses and treatment plans.
