What should be monitored to ensure the reliability of test results?

Monitoring the calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments is critical to ensuring the reliability of test results. Laboratory tests can be highly sensitive to the precision and accuracy of the equipment used. If instruments are not correctly calibrated, they may produce erroneous results, leading to misdiagnosis or ineffective treatment plans. Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of the instruments and helps preserve their functionality, ensuring that they operate within the required specifications. By focusing on these aspects, laboratories can maintain high standards of quality control and provide accurate and dependable results for patient care. This reliability is essential not just for individual test results but also for the overall integrity of laboratory diagnostics.