PAP Quality Control and Laboratory Standards

Question 1

Under CLIA regulations, how often must cytology laboratories enroll in an approved proficiency testing program for Pap tests?

Accepted Answer

Every 6 months

Answer

CLIA requires cytology laboratories performing Pap tests to enroll in approved proficiency testing every 6 months.

Question 2

What is the maximum number of slides a cytotechnologist may screen per 24-hour period under CLIA regulations?

Accepted Answer

100

Answer

CLIA limits cytotechnologists to screening no more than 100 slides per 24-hour period to ensure quality review.

Question 3

Which process involves re-examining a random selection of cytotechnologist-negative Pap slides before sign-out?

Accepted Answer

Prospective rescreening

Answer

Prospective rescreening (10% rescreen) involves randomly reviewing negative cases before final sign-out to catch false negatives.

Question 4

A laboratory's Pap test false-negative rate is best monitored by correlating cytology results with:

Accepted Answer

Histopathology biopsy results

Answer

Cytology-histology correlation compares Pap results to subsequent biopsy findings, serving as the gold standard for monitoring false-negative rates.

Question 5

Which quality indicator is used to evaluate the adequacy of Pap test specimen collection across a laboratory?

Accepted Answer

Unsatisfactory specimen rate

Answer

The unsatisfactory specimen rate monitors collection technique quality; excessively high rates prompt clinician education.

PAP - Papanicolaou Test Practice Test