2018 Volume 67 Issue 3 Pages 353-359
In 2014, our hospital acquired the international standard ISO 15189:2012 that specifies the requirements for quality and competence in medical laboratories. This standard requires traceability in all processes of laboratory tests and strict management of reagents for the tests, and therefore, detailed recording is necessary. Initially, handwriting on datasheets was used in our laboratory. However, this method required a lot of work, was time-consuming, and caused entry errors. To solve these problems, we constructed a reagent management system using the GS1-128 barcode. To develop its program, we used Visual Basic for Applications in Microsoft Excel. Automatic recording using the barcode and program increased the efficiency of the recording work and prevented recording errors. In addition, electronic data reduced mistakes such as the use of expired reagents, and improved ordering efficiency. To provide accurate and safe laboratory test services, reagent ordering, inventory management, management of reagent lot numbers and expiration dates for use, and recording of the initiation and discontinuation dates of reagent use are indispensable. Our reagent management system increases the efficiency of such recording, facilitating smooth laboratory test services.
