A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study on the Pre-Analytical Procedures Used by Medical Technologists in Metro Manila during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 Pandemic has affected many sectors of the healthcare system, most especially the laboratory. Adjustments are made in order to cater to this situation, notably the pre-analytical phase, the part of the laboratory procedure most vulnerable to frequent errors. This study aims to determine how medical technologists collect, handle, and transport clinical specimens in laboratories in Metro Manila during the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. The survey used was adapted from De Gruyter (2020) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Respondents were recruited through emails to the medical directors of their institutions and contacted through Facebook through posting. Respondents fitting the inclusive criteria were asked for their consent to participate in an online survey given through Google Forms and informed of the nature of said study. The survey questionnaire was divided into five categories, which included the demographic profile, specimen collection, specimen handling, specimen transport, and specimen personal protective equipment. Through quantitative statistics and descriptive analysis, the questions were tallied, weighed, and averaged using the scoring system given by the WHO. Most respondents practice proper documentation, including minimum patient identification, and use special labels for patient samples. They have guidelines in specimen quality, adequate storage for analyzed and unanalyzed specimens. Most laboratory specimens are transported via motorized vehicle, with solid-walled leakproof containers being the most used method of packaging specimens. Respondents have personnel in charge present in receiving infectious substances. Gloves are the most worn personal protective equipment and Class I Biosafety Cabinets, Class 2 Biosafety Cabinets, and negative pressure rooms have the lowest frequency of use. Results from the study have determined that most medical technologists practice proper collection procedures, have guidelines in accepting unqualified specimens, as well as provide adequate storage for analyzed specimens and those with delayed analysis. The most frequent means of specimen delivery is through motorized vehicles, and delivery by hand. The most used packaging used for samples includes solid-walled leakproof containers, single plastic bags, and three layers of plastic bags. The most used laboratory protection practices used are gloves, disposable gowns, and goggles/face shields. The researchers recommend further training for medical technologists in both local/national and international regulations, and the inclusion of BSL I and II cabinets with negative pressure rooms.