Free CLS Laboratory Quality Control & Assurance Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the main purpose of quality control in a laboratory?

Accepted Answer

To monitor and maintain test result accuracy

Answer

Quality control (QC) in a laboratory is a set of procedures designed to monitor the analytical process and detect errors. By regularly testing control samples with known values, QC ensures that instruments, reagents, and techniques are performing within acceptable limits. This continuous monitoring helps maintain the accuracy and reliability of patient test results, ensuring confidence in diagnostic outcomes.

Question 2

Which sample type is used in internal quality control?

Accepted Answer

Control sample

Answer

Internal quality control (IQC) relies on control samples, which are materials with known, stable concentrations of analytes, to monitor the performance of analytical tests. These samples are run alongside patient samples to ensure the accuracy and precision of the testing system. If the control sample results are within an acceptable range, it indicates the test is performing correctly and patient results are reliable.

Question 3

What is the difference between quality control and quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

QC checks samples, QA ensures process reliability

Answer

Quality Control (QC) focuses on the operational techniques and activities used to fulfill requirements for quality, primarily by checking the quality of individual samples and test runs. Quality Assurance (QA) is a broader, overarching system that encompasses all planned and systematic activities implemented to provide confidence that a product or service will consistently meet quality requirements, ensuring the entire process is reliable.

Question 4

Why is documentation important in quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

To ensure standard procedures are followed

Answer

Documentation is a cornerstone of quality assurance, providing a written record of all processes, procedures, and results. This ensures that standard operating procedures (SOPs) are consistently followed, promoting reproducibility, traceability, and accountability. Comprehensive documentation is essential for auditing, troubleshooting, and demonstrating compliance with regulatory standards, ultimately ensuring the reliability of laboratory operations.

Question 5

What does a Levy-Jennings chart display?

Accepted Answer

Control values for QC monitoring

Answer

A Levy-Jennings chart is a graphical tool used in clinical laboratories to monitor the performance of quality control samples over time. It plots the control values against their expected mean and standard deviation limits, providing a visual representation of analytical performance. This chart helps identify trends, shifts, or random errors in the analytical system, indicating potential issues with instrument calibration or reagent performance.

CLS - Certified Laboratory Professional Practice Test

CLS - Certified Laboratory Professional Practice Test

Free CLS Laboratory Quality Control & Assurance Questions and Answers