Mary Margarethe R. Cuevas
MT 14 Lec – BB

The Laboratory Information System

The Laboratory Information System or LIS is a computer system used in laboratories. It stores and analyze data and information from patients, laboratory tests, and orders. Laboratory managers use LIS computer system since it streamlines work and processes everything.

Using the LIS also cuts down on the number of people needed to process the order and
administer the test. The LIS manages every aspect of the laboratory. It does inventory tracking and testing for several divisions like hematology and immunology.

The LIS has three main components. It guarantees that none of the data results they process contain errors. It involves following protocols, tracking samples, and organizing storage. Laboratories rely on LIS nowadays since it is difficult to ensure error-free data.

The LIS has its own set of standard operating procedures. It is what standardizes the laboratory processes, steps, and workflow. Laboratory technicians follows the defined protocols and procedures to produce correct results.

LIS keeps a record of all pertinent information about the sample they receive. From the time a sample arrives at the lab until tested and stored. Some information that the LIS collect is the ID, source, and collecting date. The LIS will then process the supplied data to produce a result.

The LIS is in charge of keeping track of each sample that the laboratory has received. Stored samples placed in their designated storages and containers. It keeps track of the drawer box, shelf, and room number.

The precise operation of LIS adheres to a specified process. There are three phases in the analysis. Handling and identification of specimen is under pre-analytical phase. Specimens gothrough diagnostic steps in analytical phase. Post-analytical phase produces the results.

In the pre-analytical stage, samples have an ID number and barcode for identification.
Examination for available supply of the required chemicals and reagents will follow. This entails verifying the chemicals’ expiry date.

Under the analytical phase is where to enter in the LIS the required tests for the sample. So as addition of any other information needed for processing the sample. The LIS will then give a time when the test ends before starting the test procedure for the sample.

Then enter the finished test procedures with results in the LIS. Done manual or direct by linking the machines used to the software using cables. Authorized individuals verify the results through quality control and quality assurance.

Report the results and distribute in a standard format during post-analytical phase. Record the data about the patient and the results of the tests in the LIS. Even after distributing the data, record it to serve as future reference.

The use of laboratory information systems can reduce the amount of labor required to complete tasks and increase the number of tests a laboratory can perform each day and since LIS systems also guarantee accurate patient identification.

With LIS, laboratories are able to handle increased volumes of work without risk of patient misidentification. They are essential in the modern laboratory for reducing errors, enhancing workflows, meeting quality control standards, and enhancing patient care.