MT 14 – DD
Learning through writing: Teaching Critical Thinking Skills through writing assignments

1. Function of the laboratory information system

Laboratory information systems are healthcare software solutions that do the following: (1) process, (2) store, and (3) manage patient data related to laboratory processing and testing

Laboratory information systems manage workflow and ensure quality control for medical tests performed on inpatient and outpatient individuals. It handles monitoring, storing, and updating a patient’s clinical information.

Moreover, laboratory information systems keep track of laboratory supplies and equipment. It can organize available stock, reorder for supplies if necessary, and keep an inventory of items used in testing. Inventory management is one of its important functions.

Laboratory information systems provide integration of machines and instruments in the laboratory. This enables sharing of data between devices. Resulting in a seamless operation which reduces potential errors for manual data entry.

With all those mentioned, it is important also in a system to have security measures. The laboratory information system also provides security to protect patient data. This includes user authentication, role-based access control, and audit trails to track who accessed and modified data.

These are all the functions of a laboratory information system and they all work together to organize laboratory processes, provide accurate laboratory results, provide the best healthcare, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

2. Major components of laboratory information system

According to an article by VB Monster, an excellent laboratory information system is composed of (3) major components. This includes (1) protocol execution, (2) sample tracking, and (3) storage organization.

Protocol execution – directs the standardization of the laboratories’ procedures, steps, and workflow. This ensures that people involved in the laboratory adheres to a standardized procedure when handling and processing samples.

The laboratory information system process flow should always be observed to obtain consistent and accurate results. Procedures and protocols are standardized across the laboratory therefore the personnel would follow said steps when running tests in the correct order.

Sample tracking – follows the process of a certain sample from the time it enters the laboratory. The system would then record all its data for a sample when accessed. The information would include the collection date, ID, source, quantitative information.

The sample’s data is continuously recorded as workflow progresses. It does not only use external barcode labels to track lab samples but also records the person handling the sample and its location, often using a chemical index for easier identification.

Storage Organization – responsible for tracking samples and specimens throughout its lifecycle in the laboratory. It also keeps track of the storage containers the samples are stored which includes the shelf of the rack and room number.

There is also a storage hierarchy so that sample location and identification is easy. This includes sample, position, box, drawer, rack, shelf, freezer, and room details. This arrangement makes it easier to find samples, specimens, and equipment in the laboratory.

3. How does laboratory information management system work?

The process begins when a sample is introduced to the laboratory. Then it assigns the sample a particular identification number to track the sample through its lifecycle in the laboratory. Test orders can be placed by healthcare professionals on samples within the system.

It assigns tasks to laboratory personnel, prioritizes urgent tests, and tracks the progress of each sample through different stages of testing. Then the sample is tested using laboratory instruments. Afterwards results are registered and stored on the system.

Results are then validated and published through the system. Security measures are put in place to protect data. As and when the samples move through the laboratory, the related information can then be updated to maintain the audit trail.

References:

Core Components of Laboratory Information Management System: How to Choose the Right LIMS for Your Business. (2021, August 9). VB Monster. Retrieved October 1, 2023, from https://vbmonster.com/core-components-of-laboratory-information-management-system/
Forest, J.-C., Rheault, C., & Dang-Vu, T.-K. (1985). The Laboratory Information System (LIS): I-application to the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory. Clinical Biochemistry, 18(2), 78–84. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0009-9120(85)80085-0
Orchard Software. (n.d.). What is LIS Software and How Does it Work? Orchard Software. Retrieved October 1, 2023, from https://www.orchardsoft.com/resources/learn-about-lis/
What is a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System)?: Definition, Purpose, & Benefits of LIMS. (2023, August 2). CloudLIMS. Retrieved October 1, 2023, from https://cloudlims.com/what-is-a-lims/