ASCP Laboratory Safety and Quality Control 3

Question 1

What does CAP checklist item require regarding the turnaround time (TAT) for surgical pathology specimens?

Accepted Answer

Laboratories must establish, monitor, and document TAT goals for different specimen types

Answer

CAP requires laboratories to define TAT goals appropriate for specimen type and urgency, and to monitor and document performance against those goals.

Question 2

What is the purpose of proficiency testing (PT) in clinical histology laboratories?

Accepted Answer

To externally validate laboratory performance by testing unknown samples against peer laboratories

Answer

Proficiency testing uses blind samples distributed to multiple laboratories; results are compared to peer performance and expected values to confirm laboratory accuracy.

Question 3

Under CLIA regulations, who is responsible for the overall operation and administration of a histology laboratory?

Accepted Answer

The laboratory director

Answer

CLIA designates the laboratory director as ultimately responsible for all laboratory operations, test performance, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Question 4

What is the standard recommended storage temperature for most unstained paraffin sections awaiting IHC testing?

Accepted Answer

Room temperature for up to a limited time; refrigeration (4°C) for longer storage

Answer

Unstained sections are best stored at room temperature short-term or at 4°C for extended periods, as oxidation degrades antigenic epitopes over time.

Question 5

What is the role of internal quality controls in an H&E staining batch?

Accepted Answer

To verify that each staining run is performing within acceptable standards before patient slides are released

Answer

Internal controls run with each batch confirm that staining reagents, timing, and technique are working acceptably, ensuring patient results are reliable.

ASCP - Histotechnician Test Practice Test

ASCP - Histotechnician Test Practice Test

ASCP Laboratory Safety and Quality Control 3