Which error is not detectable through a quality-control program?

Which error is not detectable through a quality-control program?

• A. Poor technique
• B. Reagent contamination or degeneration
• C. Sample quality
• D. Equipment malfunctions

Answer: (A)

Quality-control programs verify that the testing method, reagents, and instruments are performing correctly by using control materials. They’re designed to catch issues such as reagent contamination or degeneration, sample quality problems, or equipment malfunctions because those things cause control results to fall outside expected ranges. Operator technique, however, is about how the person conducts the test. If a technician performs the procedure poorly but still produces results that fall within the control limits, the QC process won’t flag the error. Training, adherence to standard operating procedures, supervision, and proficiency testing are what address this kind of issue. So, poor technique is not detectable through a quality-control program.

Quality-control programs verify that the testing method, reagents, and instruments are performing correctly by using control materials. They’re designed to catch issues such as reagent contamination or degeneration, sample quality problems, or equipment malfunctions because those things cause control results to fall outside expected ranges. Operator technique, however, is about how the person conducts the test. If a technician performs the procedure poorly but still produces results that fall within the control limits, the QC process won’t flag the error. Training, adherence to standard operating procedures, supervision, and proficiency testing are what address this kind of issue. So, poor technique is not detectable through a quality-control program.