Tracer Methodology 101 The Laboratory Tracer

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ISSN： 1542-8672

Source： Joint Commission: The Source, Vol.7, Iss.11, 2009-11, pp. : 4-11

Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.

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Abstract

Most tracers involve interviewing a patient about his or her quality of care, treatment, or services. However, laboratory tracers are slightly different because laboratories deal directly with patients during specimen collection activities, conduct tests, and work with other departments to provide information used to make decisions about a patient's care. The laboratory tracer also looks at the consistent application of processes related to laboratory testing and how information is exchanged between the laboratory and other departments. This column uses a scenario narrative and sample questions to explain how to conduct a laboratory tracer in your organization.