CHT Laboratory Management & Safety

Question 1

Which accreditation organization specifically accredits histocompatibility laboratories in the United States?

Accepted Answer

American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ASHI)

Answer

ASHI provides specialty accreditation for histocompatibility laboratories, setting standards specific to HLA testing, crossmatching, and transplant immunology beyond CLIA requirements.

Question 2

Under CLIA regulations, which category applies to most HLA typing assays performed in histocompatibility labs?

Accepted Answer

High complexity

Answer

HLA typing assays require specialized training, complex interpretation, and quality oversight, placing them in the high complexity category under CLIA 88 regulations.

Question 3

What is the required minimum qualification for a laboratory director of an ASHI-accredited histocompatibility laboratory?

Accepted Answer

PhD or MD with specific training and experience in histocompatibility and immunogenetics

Answer

ASHI standards require the laboratory director to hold a doctoral degree (PhD or MD) with documented training and competency specifically in histocompatibility and immunogenetics.

Question 4

What does proficiency testing (PT) in a histocompatibility lab serve to demonstrate?

Accepted Answer

Laboratory competency in performing and interpreting HLA testing compared to peer labs

Answer

PT programs like those from CAP or ASHI send unknown samples to labs; correct results compared to peer laboratory consensus demonstrate ongoing testing proficiency as required by CLIA.

Question 5

Which biological safety level (BSL) is appropriate for routine work with human blood and tissue specimens in a histocompatibility lab?

Accepted Answer

BSL-2

Answer

BSL-2 practices are standard for clinical labs handling human blood and tissues with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens like HIV and HBV.

CHT - Certified Histocompatibility Technologist Practice Test

CHT - Certified Histocompatibility Technologist Practice Test

CHT Laboratory Management & Safety