More than Just Quality Control

Providing quality flow cytometric results requires more than monitoring quality control data. Laboratories should standardize all aspects of testing and evaluate each one critically for opportunities to improve. This article discusses a complete quality management system that includes assay validation and change control, specimen collection and delivery, ordering of flow cytometric testing, sample preparation, verification of specimen integrity, flow cytometry data acquisition, analysis and interpretation, reporting of results, document of standard operating procedures, proficiency testing, training, and documentation of ongoing competency.