Impact of Laboratory Personnel Training on Preanalytical Errors in the Central Clinical Laboratory of a Tertiary Care Hospital

Aims: In the current medical landscape, the diagnosis of many diseases heavily relies on tests conducted in the Central Clinical Laboratory (CCL).Laboratory sample testing requires precision and expertise, with potential errors possible in any phase-preanalytical, analytical, or postanalytical.Such errors can result in misdiagnosis and pose serious risks to patient safety.The present study aims to assess various types of preanalytical errors in the CCL and to compare their frequency before and after the implementation of a training program for laboratory personnel.Methods: The study was carried out in the CCL, where various types of preanalytical errors were monitored and compared before and after providing training to the laboratory personnel.Results: During the course of the study, a total of 364 preanalytical errors were detected.Out of 364 preanalytical errors, 308 preanalytical errors were observed before the training and 56 preanalytical errors were observed after the training of laboratory personnel.There is a significant decrease in all categories of preanalytical errors after the training.A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in the proportions of various preanalytical errors before and after the laboratory personnel received training.Conclusion: Preanalytical errors in the CCL can be reduced through regular and effective training of laboratory personnel.Our study demonstrated a significant reduction in preanalytical errors following the training period, highlighting the importance of such interventions.Clinical significance: Minimizing preanalytical errors through training of laboratory personnel enhances the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results.It prevents misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment and improves overall patient safety, reducing unnecessary healthcare costs.Periodic training programmes can thus play a crucial role in sustaining high-quality laboratory practices and better clinical outcomes.