EHPLE Medical Laboratory cheat sheet

Check identity, specimen suitability and method before interpretation.

Use analytical equations only within their stated model and validated range.

Distinguish biomarkers and calculated estimates from definitive diagnoses.

Preserve units, assumptions and the appropriate communication pathway.

Verify collection and count quality before assigning a biological explanation.

Compute cell indices with consistent units.

Integrate morphology, immunophenotype and genetic evidence.

Interpret clotting assays within method and interference limits.

Interpret positive and negative findings with specimen and clinical context.

Treat stains and single biochemical results as components of identification.

Use current validated susceptibility procedures and interpretation criteria.

Match containment to the actual procedure and risk assessment.

Match organism stage and specimen to the diagnostic question.

Do not exceed the identification level supported by morphology.

Recognize that concentration and staining methods have complementary limits.

Investigate discordance rather than infer treatment failure from one result.

Use the actual assay format and validated response range.

Separate reactive screening, biological association and confirmed disease.

Resolve ABO discrepancies through the qualified process.

Interpret antiglobulin results with controls and evidence of hemolysis.

Quality spans preanalytical, analytical and postanalytical work.

A QC pattern triggers investigation and does not prove one unique cause.

Distinguish calibration, validation, internal control and external assessment.

Use risk-based safety procedures and preserve a traceable record.