ANALYTICAL & LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
sophisticated software to keep track of the tests orders, route the specimens in the appropriate direction, maintain patient and quality control results and watch for equipment indicators. Getting in the habit of monitoring the software can be a challenge, as it requires understanding on a systemic level what the automation is doing and why. For those who have worked with their hands on the bench, understanding how that translates to automation can be a challenge. Troubleshooting can also be challenge.
Understanding what an error means for a complex system can be problematic. While there are some obvious issues that can be directly addressed, subtle issues can creep up over time. T is requires tracking and monitoring of systems to stop issues before they start. It also means bringing a diff erent mindset to system operations, and great communication skills among staff and healthcare professionals, particularly those who may
Lab automation sysems are customisable and this modularity is a key selling point
useful in troubleshooting new equipment, even when those skills weren’t used very often. As the benefi ts of
work on diff erent shifts, to address testing concerns. When new technology comes in, old technology goes out of the door. Althoughthis does lead to increased productivity, some skills and knowledge of the old system gets lost. As medical care takes place over a continuum of years, knowing why something was done a certain way in the past is necessary to ensure that any new information on a patient’s tests is understood within a wider context. Getting rid of older testing techniques makes it challenging to keep that level of knowledge accessible. Also, older skills may be
automation become apparent, it may be cost eff ective to bring some tests in house, while ending or outsourcing other tests. T ese new tests require changes in supplies, which has downstream impacts on storage of reagents and staffi ng needs. Understanding the new workfl ows, which
may create new demands for labour, may create staffi ng challenges, as people have to get accustomed to new hours and new responsibilities. Working through those challenges can create unanticipated burdens that make switching to automation diffi cult. T ere are a large number of benefi ts and challenges to automating processes in a lab, and careful consideration is essential.
Todd Graham is with Kolabtree.
www.kolabtree.com
The Art of Precision Measurement
www.novasina.ch/blog/water-activity-buying-guide
www.scientistlive.com
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