Specimen Labeling Errors: A Retrospective Study

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2015

Description

Aim: Specimen labeling errors are a serious problem in healthcare facilities. The effects from specimen labeling errors can be devastating and could lead to misguided treatment or death. This retrospective study analyzes the effects of two interventions-one-on-one specimen collection education and removal of an electronic option that allowed registered nurses to bypass the barcode safety function. Methods: The average number of specimens collected by registered nurses and the number of specimen labeling errors by registered nurses in the two adult intensive-care units in the six months before and the six months after the interventions were obtained via two instruments at the researched facility. Results: The total error rate before the interventions was 1.31 per 1,000 specimens or 0.131%. The total error rate after the interventions was 0.139 per 1,000 specimens or 0.014%. Together, the two interventions, one-on-one education and removal of an electronic option that allowed registered nurses to bypass the barcode safety function, resulted in a 90% error reduction post- implementation. Discussion: Several limitations were noted with the setting, sample and data collection, but overall, the study proved that reducing specimen labeling errors is possible. Through one-on-one education and removal of an electronic option that allowed registered nurses to bypass the barcode safety function, the researched facility led to a significant reduction in specimen labeling errors.

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