Evaluation of Hematology Analysis Efficiency Using the Sigma Metrics System for Quality Control and Performance in Medical Technology Laboratory, Khon Kaen Rajanagarindra Psychiatric Hospital
Keywords:
Quality control, Six Sigma, Laboratory Competency AssessmentAbstract
This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the analytical performance and to plan the quality control (QC) for hematological analysis, using sigma metrics in the Medical Technology Laboratory at Khon Kaen Rajanagarindra Psychiatric Hospital. The study utilized data from Internal Quality Control (IQC) and Peer Group External Quality Control for five clinical hematology parameters: White Blood Cell (WBC), Red Blood Cell (RBC), Hemoglobin (HGB), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), and Platelet (PLT). Data were collected from January 2023 to December 2023.
The results revealed high precision and accuracy in the measurements, as the coefficient of variation (%CV) did not exceed 0.33% of the Total Error Allowable (TEa), while the %bias was also within 0.33% of the TEa. The performance evaluation of the Beckman Coulter Unicel DxH 800 automated analyzer showed that the lowest Sigma metric values for HGB, RBC, WBC, MCV, and PLT were 4.04, 5.44, 7.97, 9.27, and 10.74, respectively. For quality control planning, the single rule 13s (N = 3, R = 1) can be applied to the WBC, MCV, and PLT parameters. For the RBC parameter, the rules 13s /2 of 32s/R4s (N = 3, R = 1) can be utilized, while for the HGB parameter, the 13s /2 of 32s/R4s /31s (N = 3, R = 2) rules can be applied.
The outcome from this study shows that accurate and precise analysis allows for the selection of appropriate quality control rules tailored to each test parameter. Using simple, straightforward rules helps reduce costs on control materials, minimizes the need for retests, and eases operational workload for laboratory personnel. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement of quality control techniques are essential for the laboratory.
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