The Contribution of Nursing–Laboratory Communication Quality to Reducing Diagnostic Delays
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22399/ijcesen.4766Keywords:
Nursing-Laboratory Communication, Diagnostic Delays, Pre-Analytical Errors, Interprofessional Collaboration, Specimen IntegrityAbstract
Effective nursing-laboratory communication is a critical determinant in mitigating diagnostic delays, acting as the essential conduit between clinical suspicion and analytical confirmation. The pre-analytical phase, predominantly governed by nursing practice, is highly vulnerable to errors such as mislabeling, improper specimen handling, and loss of clinical context, which directly contribute to postponed diagnoses. Conversely, the laboratory's ability to provide timely, accurate results hinges on receiving well-communicated, high-integrity samples and the capacity to effectively relay critical findings and specimen issues. Breakdowns in this interface—whether due to flawed technology, ambiguous protocols, or interprofessional cultural divides—introduce preventable bottlenecks. Strengthening this communication through integrated health information systems, standardized processes, interprofessional education, and a culture of shared accountability compresses the diagnostic timeline, enhancing patient safety, improving clinical outcomes, and optimizing healthcare resource utilization by ensuring the right information reaches the right person at the right time.
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