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  • Title: [Pre-analytical errors in blood sampling: an observational study on specimen collection technique and laboratory results].
    Author: Masotto M, Brivio R, De Vito G, Villa CE, Ausili D.
    Journal: Assist Inferm Ric; 2015; 34(2):76-85. PubMed ID: 26228504.
    Abstract:
    INTRODUCTION: Around 60-70% of diagnostic and therapeutic decisions are based on blood exams. Several errors occur during the pre-analytic phase. AIMS: of this study were: to describe nurses' behaviours in blood specimen collection; to describe prevalence and type of pre-analytical errors; to assess the association between pre-analytical errors and occurrence of unsuitable specimens. METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted by means of a structured form based on up-to-date clinical recommendations. A researcher observed nurses' behaviors during 172 blood sampling procedures in medical, surgical and emergency care settings. Unsuitable procedures were registered. RESULTS: Most behaviours were correct, however some significantly diverged from recommended practices: active and passive patient identification; respect of antiseptic solution's drying time; rapid removal of tourniquet when blood started flowing. The prevalence of unsuitable specimen reports was significantly higher when the procedure involved a small calibre vein (RP: 0.19; IC95% 0.04 - 0.98; p = 0.03) and when blood drawing was difficult (RP; 3.83; IC95% 1.63 - 9.01; p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The pre-analytical phase is important for the diagnostic process and safety of patients. Although some factors – as patients' characteristics – are non-modifiable, some nurses' behaviours could be improved to reduce risk of pre-analytical errors. Further studies are needed to clarify the associations between pre-analytical errors and laboratory outcomes.
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