Short-Term (6 Weeks) Experience of a Modular Workcell for Hemostasis Testing Including an Intelligent Data Manager at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Objective: Modular workcells could be a better solution than total laboratory automation (TLA) in hemostasis laboratories. Here, we evaluated the impact of implementing a modular workcell (HemoCell) with an intelligent data management facility (HemoHub). Methods We compared the turnaround times (TATs), numbers of rerun samples, and rerun times pre- and postimplementation of the HemoCell at Gil Medical Center. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), D-dimer, and fibrinogen were evaluated. Results: The TAT standard deviations (SDs) and maximum TAT values decreased after HemoCell implementation, although the mean TATs for PT, aPTT, and D-dimer were increased. Numbers of rerun samples were increased (18.1/day vs 44.7/day). However, rerun times were reduced, and SDs were decreased during the post-HemoCell period compared with pre-HemoCell. Additionally, technologists needed smaller working space and less labor. Conclusion: The modular workcell could improve quality and efficiency by providing more consistent TATs and shorter rerun times in the hemostasis laboratory.