Joe Anthony C. Amistoso Jr.
MT14 (LEC) – AA

Writing Assignment

A laboratory information system functions to process, store, and manage data for laboratories. The laboratory information system promotes proper workflow and quality control of medical services. Medical testing includes Hematology, Chemistry, and Immunology to name a few. Laboratory information systems track, store, and update clinical details about patients. This data is then utilized for future references coming from the LIS database.

Three components comprise the Laboratory Information System. Sample Tracking, Protocol Execution, and Storage Organization.

Sample Tracking is a component that tracks a sample from the moment it enters the laboratory. As the sample is being processed, more data is being acquired that is then stored in the LIS. Sample Tracking also takes into account individuals who interact with the said sample. A few examples include other laboratory technicians from other laboratories. The places where the sample is being placed are also tracked through the course of its lifecycle.

Protocol Execution fuels the standardization of laboratories and their protocols and procedures. This gives the technicians updated procedures and protocols that are cost-efficient and accurate. Outlined in revised SOPs, sample processing provides accurate and reliable results. These results have no inaccurate findings or errors whatsoever. Protocol Execution augments the digitalization of standard procedures and protocols. These make sure that technicians perform perfect laboratory tests. Protocol Executions that are being revised often yield more accurate results. This provides much better control measures and grants visibility to researchers and clinicians.

Storage Organization keeps track of where a sample is being stored in its life cycle. This remembers what specimen holder is the sample placed in and in what specific storage. Examples include racks, shelves, refrigerators, and boxes to name a few. Storage Organization follows what laboratory workers call the “Storage Hierarchy”. This is being used to locate and identify the samples in question. This starts from the specimen itself up to the room. This also ensures that all samples are being stored and have correct labels. Storage Organization provides a much easier way to access and retrieve samples.

A laboratory information management system works by tracking every detail of a sample. Information such as the location and storage of samples are being addressed. People who also interact with or encounter the sample are also included. All data from the sample’s extraction until its demise is being stored and processed by the LIS. These are all done by first putting the sample information in the LIS. Samples are then given with a unique number (barcode as an example). Giving sample numbers and barcodes helps in easier identification of the sample.

With this, healthcare providers will not frustrate themselves in finding the sample required. The laboratory workers will upload the results immediately after receiving the information. That way, the information about the sample is being updated as well. It will then provide the database of the LIS with reliable and up-to-date information. This ensures that the information is true and contains no errors. It also gives clients and technicians reliable information free of mistakes and inaccuracies.

References:

Third Wave Analytics. (2023, August 10). What is a lims and what are they used for? https://thirdwaveanalytics.com/blog/what-does-a-lims-do/#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20Core%20Components,paper%20and%20a%20massive%20spreadsheet.
What is LIS software and how does it work?. Orchard Software. (2023, July 19). https://www.orchardsoft.com/resources/learn-about-lis/#:~:text=An%20LIS%20is%20a%20software,to%20an%20EHR%2C%20practice%20management