J Lab Med Qual Assur.  2017 Mar;39(1):31-41. 10.15263/jlmqa.2017.39.1.31.

Critical Value Report: Survey and Literature Review

• Song JK
• Ahn HJ
• Kim YA

• KMID: 2376750
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15263/jlmqa.2017.39.1.31

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Communication with clinicians in the pre- and post-analytical period to report correct and adequate laboratory test results is crucial. Specifically, the notification of critical values that identify a treatable life-threatening condition should be effectively implemented. Although critical value reporting consists of a series of inter-dependent decisions and processes, standard critical value practices in clinical laboratories have not been agreed upon yet.
METHODS
We analyzed the critical value reporting protocols currently used in Korea and performed a systematic review of published literature to provide best practices to improve the quality of critical value reports.
RESULTS
Commonly included critical value reports (number of healthcare facilities) are such as followings: hemoglobin (59/59), platelet (52/59), white blood cell (51/59), activated partial thromboplastin time (45/59), glucose (56/59), potassium (55/59), sodium (50/59) total calcium (42/59), creatinine (42/59), and gram stain result when blood culture is positive (24/59).
CONCLUSIONS
Substantial variations in the critical value report protocols exist among the participating clinical laboratories. Further effort should be invested to standardize the protocol.

Keyword

Laboratory critical value; Quality improvement; Standardization

MeSH Terms

Blood Platelets
Calcium
Creatinine
Delivery of Health Care
Glucose
Korea
Leukocytes
Partial Thromboplastin Time
Potassium
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Quality Improvement
Sodium
Calcium
Creatinine
Glucose
Potassium
Sodium