Final answer:
Yes, comments are mandatory for both out-of-range QC results and critical patient results as they provide important documentation for quality control, legal records, and process improvement in medical laboratories.
Step-by-step explanation:
When documenting for action taken when QC results are out of range and action taken when critical patient results are obtained, comments are indeed mandatory. This practice is part of ensuring quality control (QC) and maintaining high standards in a medical laboratory setting. The rationale for recording comments is to provide a thorough audit trail detailing not just the outcome, but also the response to any deviations from expected ranges.
Documentation of such actions is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to identify recurring issues that may indicate systematic problems with the testing process or equipment, thereby ensuring patient safety. Secondly, it serves as a legal record, proving that proper procedures were followed, which is crucial for accreditation and for defending the integrity of laboratory results in legal situations. Lastly, it facilitates ongoing improvement in laboratory practices through review and analysis of incidents.
Hence, in concluding your question, the answer is: 1) Yes, comments are mandatory whenever QC results fall out of the expected range or when critical results are reported for a patient.