Quality Control Flashcards
(59 cards)
What is the definition of Quality Control?
A process to periodically examine a measurement procedure to verify that it is performing according to pre-established specifications.
What are the objectives of Quality Control?
- To check the stability of the machine
- To check the quality of reagents
- To check technical errors (personnel)
What is Statistical Quality Control (QC)?
A method that includes monitoring reagent lot changes, calibrator lot changes, and sampling the measurement process.
What are the types of errors identified in Quality Control?
- Random Error
- Systematic Error
What does the Cumulative Sum chart indicate?
It gives the earliest indication of systematic errors (trend) and is sensitive to small, persistent errors.
What is the purpose of the Youden / Twin Plot?
To compare results obtained on a high and low control serum from different laboratories.
What is the Shewhart-Levey Jennings Chart used for?
To observe values of control materials over time to determine and detect errors such as inaccuracy and imprecision.
What is the 1 2s Rule in Westgard Rules?
A rule indicating that if one control measurement exceeds two standard deviations from the mean, it signals a potential error.
What is the primary cause of a trend observed in the Shewhart-Levey Jennings Chart?
Deterioration of reagents.
What does a shift mean in the context of Quality Control?
More than six consecutive values fall on one side of the mean, indicating a potential calibration or formulation issue.
Fill in the blank: Quality Control is also called _______.
[internal quality control / statistical process control]
What are the components of a quality management system?
- Organization
- Customer focus
- Facilities and safety
- Personnel
- Purchasing and inventory
- Process management
What is the significance of equipment maintenance in Quality Control?
It ensures that the equipment is stable and fit for measurement.
True or False: Quality Control charts are only used to observe accuracy.
False
What are the common causes of errors in Quality Control?
- Improper calibration of the instrument
- Change in reagent formulation
- Major instrument maintenance
- Failure in reagent dispense system
What is one of the main causes of a downward trend in Quality Control charts?
Deterioration of light source or incubation temperature.
What does the 1 3s Rule in Westgard Rules indicate?
A rule indicating that if one control measurement exceeds three standard deviations from the mean, it signals a potential error.
What is the role of corrective actions in Quality Control?
To address any identified issues and ensure stable measurement processes.
What is meant by the term ‘nonconforming event management’ in Quality Control?
The process of managing events that deviate from established quality standards.
What does ‘continual improvement’ refer to in a Quality Management system?
Ongoing efforts to enhance products, services, or processes.
What does the 2s rule indicate?
One observation exceeds 2 SD from the target value.
The 12s rule is not recommended because it has a large false alert rate.
What does the 35 rule signify?
One observation exceeds 3 SD from the target value.