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Piloting Laboratory Quality System Management in Six Health Facilities in Nigeria.

Authors :
Mbah, Henry
Ojo, Emmanuel
Ameh, James
Musuluma, Humphrey
Negedu-Momoh, Olubunmi Ruth
Jegede, Feyisayo
Ojo, Olufunmilayo
Uwakwe, Nkem
Ochei, Kingsley
Dada, Michael
Udah, Donald
Chiegil, Robert
Torpey, Kwasi
Source :
PLoS ONE. Dec2014, Vol. 9 Issue 12, p1-14. 14p.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Background: Achieving accreditation in laboratories is a challenge in Nigeria like in most African countries. Nigeria adopted the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa Stepwise Laboratory (Quality) Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (WHO/AFRO– SLIPTA) in 2010. We report on FHI360 effort and progress in piloting WHO-AFRO recognition and accreditation preparedness in six health facility laboratories in five different states of Nigeria. Method: Laboratory assessments were conducted at baseline, follow up and exit using the WHO/AFRO– SLIPTA checklist. From the total percentage score obtained, the quality status of laboratories were classified using a zero to five star rating, based on the WHO/AFRO quality improvement stepwise approach. Major interventions include advocacy, capacity building, mentorship and quality improvement projects. Results: At baseline audit, two of the laboratories attained 1- star while the remaining four were at 0- star. At follow up audit one lab was at 1- star, two at 3-star and three at 4-star. At exit audit, four labs were at 4- star, one at 3-star and one at 2-star rating. One laboratory dropped a ‘star’ at exit audit, while others consistently improved. The two weakest elements at baseline; internal audit (4%) and occurrence/incidence management (15%) improved significantly, with an exit score of 76% and 81% respectively. The elements facility and safety was the major strength across board throughout the audit exercise. Conclusion: This effort resulted in measurable and positive impact on the laboratories. We recommend further improvement towards a formal international accreditation status and scale up of WHO/AFRO– SLIPTA implementation in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
19326203
Volume :
9
Issue :
12
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
PLoS ONE
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
100187872
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0116185