iMLS-LABORATORY OPERATIONS

Chromatography refers to the group of techniques used to separate complex mixtures on the basis of different physical interactions between the individual compounds and the stationary phase of the system. The basic components in any chromatographic technique are the mobile phase (gas or liquid), which carries the complex mixture (sample); the stationary phase (solid or liquid), through which the mobile phase flows; the column holding the stationary phase; and the separated components (eluate).

This lesson introduces the generic analytic methods used in many areas of the clinical laboratory—the binding of antibody (Ab) to antigen (Ag) for the specific and sensitive detection of an analyte. The Ag–Ab interactions may involve unlabeled reactants in less analytically sensitive techniques or a labeled reactant in more sensitive techniques.

Many accidents in the Lab do not just happen; they are caused by carelessness, lack of attention to detail, or lack of proper communication. Most laboratory accidents are preventable by exercising good technique, staying alert, and using common sense.

Today’s clinical laboratory requires a minimal amount of solution preparation and mathematical calculations. Most reagents are prepackaged for immediate use, however, in special circumstances, laboratory staff are required to calculate and prepare solutions for analytical assays or calculate results.

Quality can be defined as the worth of services. Six Sigma and Lean define the components critical to quality as the key measurable characteristics of a product or process whose performance requirements or specification limits must be met to satisfy the customer. Quality and safety are of the utmost importance in a clinical laboratory.