Abstract:

Objective　 To apply six sigma (6σ) for the performance evaluation of emergency blood parameters at each test phase, in order to find out the problems, develop solutions and guide quality improvement. Methods　 The performance evaluation parameters before phase, after phase and during whole process of performance evaluation were determined, and the results from January to December in 2012 were analyzed. A total of 301 125 emergency specimens′ qualification, critical value reporting, report error condition and specimen turn around time (TAT) were analyzed statistically. The sigma (σ) value was calculated. The project performance evaluation was performed in the analysis phase, and the internal quality control data and external quality control data from January to December in 2012 were collected. The imprecision (CV%) and percentage difference were calculated. According to the allowable total error (TEa%), σ value and quality goal index (QGI) were calculated. The parameters unreaching 6σ were analyzed to find out the reasons and guide the quality improvement. Results　 Before, in and after phase and during whole process, the σ values were 5.4, 5.3, 6.1 and 5.4. Conclusions　 6σ can effectively evaluate the emergency blood parameters at each test phase, and manifest the laboratory′s performance level at present and help with finding problems and promoting the continuous improvement of the emergency laboratory quality.

Key words: Six sigma, ISO 15189, Total quality management, Continuous improvement