Final answer:
A phlebotomist must perform external liquid controls on a CLIA-waived glucose point-of-care test under various conditions, including when a new test kit is set up or a new lot arrives, if the device is dropped, at regular intervals, and when test results don't match clinical signs. This ensures the accuracy and reliability of test results, essential for patient care.
Step-by-step explanation:
A phlebotomist should perform external liquid controls for quality control on a CLIA-waived glucose point-of-care test when:
- First setting up a new test kit
- When a new lot number or shipment of test supplies is received
- If the device is dropped or suspected to be functioning improperly
- At regular intervals as defined by the lab's standard operating procedures
- During routine operator competency assessments
- Whenever the results from testing seem unusually high or low or inconsistent with clinical signs and symptoms, indicating a possible issue with test performance
Quality control in phlebotomy ensures accuracy and reliability of test results, which is crucial for patient care. The external liquid controls serve as a benchmark to confirm that the glucose point-of-care test is working as intended and producing accurate results.