A importância do controle de qualidade para manutenção da correta entrega de resultado nas análises clínicas

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The importance of quality control in clinical analysis laboratories is fundamental to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and safety of laboratory results, which are essential for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This involves a set of technical and administrative procedures that ensure laboratory processes are carried out according to established standards, minimizing the occurrence of errors and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. In recent decades, diagnostic errors have posed significant challenges and led to legal claims and indemnity cases. As a result, clinical laboratories have strived to improve quality control measures continually. Objective: To conduct a systematic literature review focusing on the importance of quality control for maintaining the correct delivery of clinical analysis results, analyzing articles that address the significance of quality control in clinical analysis laboratories, and examining laboratory result processes through a literature-based approach. Methodology: A descriptive literature review was conducted, with data collection from databases such as Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), and Google Scholar. The theoretical foundation and discussion were based on the Decs Bireme descriptors and the use of the Prisma Statement 2020. The first step for a quality bibliographic search was to locate the authorized and internationally recognized terminology. The identified vocabularies served as a filter between the language used by the author and the area’s terminology. After this selection, the articles were used in the written work. Results: Quality control involves a set of technical and administrative procedures to ensure laboratory processes are performed according to established standards, minimizing errors and ensuring regulatory compliance. One of the main factors influencing the accurate delivery of laboratory results is the quality of biological samples. However, an essential factor is the calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment; the lack of preventive maintenance can lead to operational failures, resulting in errors in results and potentially requiring test repetition. Final Considerations: The quality control process ensures that laboratory equipment and processes function correctly, preventing errors that may compromise diagnoses and treatments, which directly influences the quality of healthcare. In terms of economic impact, quality in laboratories also plays a significant role, as laboratories that adopt these quality control practices tend to experience less waste, fewer errors, and less rework, resulting in greater economic efficiency.