Preanalytical phase for transfusion medicine and blood bank laboratory – tasks to complete

Background: This review describes and evaluates the most relevant preanalytical errors and their impact on subsequent laboratory diagnostics. Quality management for laboratory processes remains extremely important, despite current advancements in information technologies and fully automated routine procedures. Methods: This review is focused on specific preanalytical requirements for the blood bank and transfusion laboratory. Conclusions are done based on literature review. Results: Human errors, or lack of procedures, continue to be the cause of many errors within laboratory processes. The medical laboratory needs an impetus and stipulation to improve processes, to help eliminate errors, and meet regulatory guidelines. Conclusions: General preanalytical rules exist for clinical and research laboratories but differences in laboratory specialty and provided services influence compliance