Assessment of Quality and Risks Exposure in Histopathology Department

Abstract

The role of histopathology department in establishing a correct and final diagnosis is essential, this leading to an effective treatment for the patient so its healing to be complete. In order to achieve this goal, it is necessary that all complex steps belonging to this department to be properly carried out because any mistakes in a pathology report may adversely affect the patient outcome. Therefore, it is mandatory the quality assessment of all procedures from the laboratory to be constantly done so that the report to be reliable and accuracy. All three main categories of activities specific to a pathological laboratory (pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic phases) must undergo quality control. During the progress of these phases, it also must be identified the risks and safety problems regarding the personal staff. These may be different for each activity or procedure which is performed by the laboratory workers. All the physical, chemical or biological hazards must be identified to assess, appreciate the possible risks and to implement preventive measures. The aim of this study is to highlight the importance of quality management for all phases included in a surgical pathological laboratory based on the pathological errors observed, identify emerging risks exposure and necessary measures to prevent them.