External Quality Assessment in Isolation and Identification of Bacteria

Abstract

External quality assessment for evaluation of individual competency in isolation and identification of bacteria for clinical microbiological laboratory was studied. Lyophilized or freezedried bacteria were prepared and a panel of lyophilized bacteria was shipped once a year. The first set consisted of two mixed cultures and one pure culture. Forty-three laboratories participated in this first set. The second set provided three ampoules of lyophilized mixed bacteria. Thirty-eight laboratories participated in this second set. Fifteen (34.9%) laboratories and 21 (55.3%) laboratories were correctly reported for the first and second proficiency sets, respectively. Of 33 laboratories participated in both trials, fifteen (46%) laboratories showed performance improvement. A meeting concerning on quality assurance and good laboratory practices in clinical microbiology was also provided for participating laboratories before shipment of the second panel. This pilot scheme showed a high possibility of establishing the External quality assessment scheme in bacterial isolation and identification for continuous improvement of quality assurance.