Five common pre-analytical variables

November 12, 2019

When designing a study, there are a multitude of pre-analytical variables to consider. These range from analytical methods to sample type. Planning must account for sample source, processing methods, and data handling. However, all too often, pre-analytical variation is left by the wayside. Often discussed in the scientific literature, estimates of error derived from pre-analytical variation can be as high as 93% of all errors encountered in analytical processes. These kinds of errors are also often difficult to track down and can be problematic when using precious samples and re-draws for further testing.

The most common sources of error in the clinic are related to ordering and sample handling. However, in a research setting or when using more complicated instrumentation, many more kinds of errors can exist. These faults often surface as a study scales up. Even with standard operating procedures and well described handling documents, moving from a single site or single lab study to a multi-site study spread over a city, state, region, or country introduces difficulties that can exacerbate challenges in being able to continue to control pre-analytical variables while introducing new problems.

5 common pre-analytical variables:

Sample source: accurate identification of both patient and blood samples is a key priority. Good laboratory practice and appropriate training of operators, by specifically targeting collection of blood samples, may greatly improve this issue.

Processing methods: problems such as hemolysis, undue clotting in the blood tube, insufficient sample draw volume and modification of analyte concentration can be prevented with appropriate techniques and sampling procedures.

Data handling: the implementation of a simple and rapid checklist, including verification of blood collection devices, patient preparation and sampling techniques, can be effective for enhancing sample quality and reducing some preanalytical errors associated with these procedures.

Wrong sample/label: these errors can have serious adverse effects or can lead to completely wrong treatment of the patient. They can be corrected by regular education of the nursing staff, phlebotomists and laboratory technical staff.

Sample handling: Streck stabilization technology provides an answer to many of the variables between sample collection and results. By allowing room-temperature storage and handling, batch processing, and proven sample integrity, pre-analytical variables are mitigated. Instead of relying on off-site personnel to follow your painstakingly developed procedures, transport the samples back to your lab to assure all steps occur in the same fashion every time. This sort of control and the ability to minimize variation in samples allows scientists to focus on the data, instead of the sample.

Click here for more information about our direct draw blood collection tubes and preservation products that provide solutions for cfDNA, cfRNA, exosomes and WBC to aid in your research.

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