Factors Affecting Turnaround Time TAT in Clinical Laboratory at a Tertiary Care

Abstract

Objectives: The present study was designed to evaluate the turnaround time (TAT) of indoor patient samples and the factors affecting TAT in the clinical laboratory at a tertiary care Hospital.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at Farooq Hospital Westwood, Lahore. The data of TAT was collected between the period of 1st January to 31st July 2023. Requested tests were received in the Pathology laboratory along with test requisition forms. All were carefully screened for any mistakes. TAT analysis of ABGs, S/E, RFTs, Trop-I, amylase, and CBC of indoor patients was done for eight months.
Results: A total of 18282 indoor patient samples were included in this study. On analysis, it has been observed that the ABGs (n=3407, 99.5%), Trop-I (n=755, 85.40%), S/E (n=6497, 72.39%), CBC (n=16117, 88.15%), amylase (n=326, 86.47%), RFTS (n=7541, 78.07%) were reported within the defined TAT. This study also observed that the main reason for delayed TAT was hemolysed and clotted samples (14.22%), specimen dilution and re-run for the verification of result (12.96%), and incorrect patient registration (12.64%).
Conclusion: Monitoring TAT for laboratory reports is crucial and it plays a significant role in ensuring the effectiveness of the laboratory's operations. The factors influencing the TAT should be monitored and analyzed regularly for better patient care management