Original Research
Understanding the interface between clinical and laboratory staff
Submitted: 10 July 2013 | Published: 24 July 2014
About the author(s)
Ankie van den Broek, Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) Health, NetherlandsCoosje J. Tuijn, Royal Tropical Institute (KIT), Biomedical Research, Netherlands
Lisette van ’t Klooster, Royal Tropical Institute (KIT), Biomedical Research
Elizabeth Msoka, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Tanzania, United Republic of
Marion Sumari-de Boer, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Tanzania, United Republic of
Jaffu Chilongola, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Tumaini University, Tanzania, United Republic of
Linda Oskam, Royal Tropical Institute (KIT), Biomedical Research, Netherlands
Abstract
Objectives: To propose a new conceptual model to gain insight and analyse factors that influence the laboratory–clinical staff interface.
Methods: To develop the conceptual model, a literature study was performed, regulatory guidelines and standards for laboratories were analysed and discussions were held with experts on the topic.
Result: A conceptual model and analytical framework provided good guidance in understanding and assessing the organisational and personal factors shaping the interface. The model was based on three elements: (1) the three phases of communication (pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical); (2) the organisational and personal factors of interaction; and (3) the socio-political, economic and cultural context in which clinicians and laboratory staff operate.
Conclusion: Assessment of the interface between clinicians and laboratory workers can be performed in a systematic way. Applying this model will provide information to managers of health institutions and heads of laboratories and clinical departments about what happens when clinicians and laboratory staff interact, thus aiding them in designing strategies to improve this interface.
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Crossref Citations
1. Implementation of quality management for clinical bacteriology in low-resource settings
B. Barbé, C.P. Yansouni, D. Affolabi, J. Jacobs
Clinical Microbiology and Infection vol: 23 issue: 7 first page: 426 year: 2017
doi: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.05.007