Automatic analyzer and determination method

Abstract

To appropriately determine the measurement order of specimens.SOLUTION: An automatic analyzer according to an embodiment comprises an acquisition unit, a setting unit, and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires order information including at least one of a reception order of medical examinations for a plurality of patients and an issuance order of test requests. The setting unit sets different priorities for each of the plurality of patients on the basis of the order information. The determination unit determines the measurement order of the specimens of each of the plurality of patients on the basis of the priorities.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings relate to automated analyzers and determination methods. [Background technology]

[0002] In a hospital's sample testing, the patient first checks in at the reception desk and, if necessary, undergoes a preliminary examination by a doctor. Next, the reception desk and doctor issue a test request, and a nurse collects a sample from the patient in accordance with the test request. Next, the nurse issues a measurement request, and a laboratory technician measures the sample using an automated analyzer in accordance with the measurement request. Finally, the laboratory technician reports the sample measurement results output from the automated analyzer to the doctor, who then diagnoses the patient based on the measurement results.

[0003] Generally, due to differences in the processing required for each patient, human error by patients or medical professionals, and other factors, the order in which consultations are received, the order in which test requests are issued, and the order in which samples are measured for multiple patients differ from one another. Therefore, patients cannot receive diagnoses from doctors in the order in which they are received. On the other hand, doctors cannot diagnose patients in the order in which test requests are issued. On the other hand, laboratory technicians may need to communicate with doctors unnecessarily due to inquiries from doctors about delays in reporting measurement results, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5659155 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to appropriately determine the measurement order of samples. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The automated analyzer according to the embodiment includes an acquisition unit, a setting unit, and a determination unit. The acquisition unit acquires order information including at least one of the order of consultation reception for multiple patients and the order of issuance of test requests. The setting unit sets different priorities for each of the multiple patients based on the order information. The determination unit determines the order of measurement of samples for each of the multiple patients based on the priorities. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the arrangement of an automatic analyzer according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of each process of sample testing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a processing order in each process of a sample test according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a first example of a method for determining the measurement order of samples according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 3A to 3C are diagrams showing examples of the measurement order of a sample according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of a method for determining the measurement order of samples according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a measurement order and aspiration order of a sample according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of an analysis mechanism according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a measurement order and aspiration order of a sample according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, parts with the same reference numerals are assumed to perform the same operation, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] (First embodiment) 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. The automatic analyzer 1 includes an analysis mechanism 2, an analysis circuit 3, a drive mechanism 4, a memory circuit 5, an input IF 6, an output IF 7, a communication IF 8, and a control circuit 9.

[0010] The analysis mechanism 2 is a mechanism that automatically analyzes specimens (e.g., blood, urine, feces, body fluids, tissue) and measures the concentrations of various components in the specimen. The analysis mechanism 2 mixes the specimen or standard solution with a reagent used for a specified test item. The analysis mechanism 2 measures the optical properties of the mixture based on the amount of transmitted light or scattered light obtained by irradiating light onto the mixture. As measurement results, the analysis mechanism 2 generates test data related to the mixture of the specimen and reagent, and standard data related to the mixture of the standard solution and reagent. The analysis mechanism 2 is an example of an analysis unit (see Figure 2).

[0011] The analysis circuit 3 is a circuit that analyzes the test data and standard data generated by the analysis mechanism 2 and generates analytical data and calibration data, respectively. The analysis circuit 3 includes at least one processor. The analysis circuit 3 reads an analysis program from the storage circuit 5 and analyzes the test data and standard data in accordance with the read analysis program. The analysis circuit 3 is an example of an analysis unit.

[0012] The drive mechanism 4 is a mechanism that drives the analysis mechanism 2 under the control of the control circuit 9. The drive mechanism 4 is realized by a gear, a stepping motor, a belt conveyor, a lead screw, etc. The drive mechanism 4 is an example of a drive unit.

[0013] The memory circuit 5 is a circuit that stores various types of data. The memory circuit 5 may be a processor-readable storage medium (e.g., a magnetic storage medium, an electromagnetic storage medium, an optical storage medium, or a semiconductor memory), or may be a drive that reads and writes data from and to the storage medium. The memory circuit 5 stores an analysis program executed by the analysis circuit 3 and a control program executed by the control circuit 9. The memory circuit 5 stores the analysis data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each sample, and stores the calibration data generated by the analysis circuit 3 for each test item. The memory circuit 5 is an example of a memory unit.

[0014] The input IF6 is an interface that accepts various input operations. The input IF6 is realized by a mouse, keyboard, touchpad, touch panel, etc. The input IF6 may be a processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to a predetermined operation instruction from an external input device provided separately from the automatic analyzer 1 and outputs this electrical signal to the control circuit 9. The input IF6 converts an input operation accepted from a user (e.g., staff, nurse, laboratory technician, doctor) into an electrical signal and outputs this electrical signal to the control circuit 9. The input IF6 is an example of an input unit.

[0015] The output IF7 is an interface that outputs various types of data. The output IF7 outputs various types of data based on an output signal supplied from the control circuit 9. The output IF7 may be a touchpad or a touch panel that also functions as the input IF6. The output IF7 is realized by a display device, a printing device, an audio device, etc. The output IF7 is an example of an output unit.

[0016] The display device may be a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, or a plasma display. The display device may be a processing circuit that converts data related to the display object into a video signal and outputs the video signal to the outside. The display device is an example of a display unit.

[0017] The printing device may be a printer. The printing device may be a processing circuit that outputs data related to the object to be printed to the outside. The printing device is an example of a printing unit.

[0018] The acoustic device may be a speaker or a processing circuit that outputs an audio signal to the outside. The acoustic device is an example of an acoustic unit.

[0019] The communication IF8 is an interface for communicating various types of data. The communication IF8 communicates with a Hospital Information System (HIS) via a hospital network NW. The communication IF8 may also communicate with a Hospital Information System (HIS) via a Laboratory Information System (LIS) connected to the hospital network NW. The communication IF8 is an example of a communication unit.

[0020] The control circuit 9 is a circuit that controls the overall operation of the automatic analyzer 1. The control circuit 9 includes at least one processor. The processor refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). When the processor is a CPU, the CPU realizes each function by reading and executing a control program stored in the memory circuit 5. When the processor is an ASIC, each function is directly incorporated as a logic circuit within the ASIC circuit. The processor may be configured as a single circuit or may be configured by combining multiple independent circuits. The control circuit 9 realizes each function (acquisition function 91, setting function 92, decision function 93, and system control function 94). Note that some or all of the functions may be realized by an information processing device such as a general-purpose computer.

[0021] The acquisition function 91 is a function for acquiring various types of data. For example, the acquisition function 91 acquires order information R including at least one of the order of reception of consultations for multiple patients and the order of issuance of test requests. The order information R may be time information indicating the time (hour) when the reception process for the consultation, the issuance process of the test request, etc. was performed. The acquisition function 91 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0022] The setting function 92 is a function for setting various data. For example, the setting function 92 sets a different priority P for each of a plurality of patients based on the order information R acquired by the acquisition function 91. The setting function 92 is an example of a setting unit.

[0023] The decision function 93 is a function that decides various data. For example, the decision function 93 decides the measurement order of samples from multiple patients based on the priority P set by the setting function 92. The decision function 93 is an example of a decision unit.

[0024] The system control function 94 is a function that controls the overall operation of the automatic analyzer 1. For example, the system control function 94 controls the operation of the drive mechanism 4 so that the analysis mechanism 2 measures samples according to predetermined test items. The system control function 94 controls the operation of the analysis circuit 3 so that the analysis circuit 3 analyzes the test data and standard data generated by the analysis mechanism 2. The system control function 94 is an example of a system control unit.

[0025] 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the first embodiment. The analysis mechanism 2 includes a reaction disk 201, a thermostatic bath 202, a rack sampler 203, a first reagent storage 204, a second reagent storage 205, a sample dispensing arm 206, a sample dispensing probe 207, a first reagent dispensing arm 208, a first reagent dispensing probe 209, a second reagent dispensing arm 210, a second reagent dispensing probe 211, an electrode unit 212, a photometry unit 213, a cleaning unit 214, and a stirring unit 215.

[0026] The reaction disk 201 is a disk that holds a plurality of reaction vessels 2011 arranged in a ring shape. The reaction disk 201 transports the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 along a predetermined path under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The reaction disk 201 rotates by a predetermined angle and stops at predetermined time intervals (e.g., 4.5 seconds, 9.0 seconds).

[0027] The reaction vessel 2011 is a vessel for containing a mixture of a specimen or a standard solution and a reagent, and is made of glass, polypropylene, acrylic, or the like.

[0028] The thermostatic bath 202 is a bath that maintains a plurality of reaction vessels 2011 at a constant temperature. The thermostatic bath 202 stores a heat medium set to a predetermined temperature. The thermostatic bath 202 maintains the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 at a constant temperature by immersing the plurality of reaction vessels 2011 in the heat medium.

[0029] The rack sampler 203 is a structure that supports multiple sample racks 2031 so that they can be transported. The rack sampler 203 has a "transport area" along a tangential direction D1 approaching the reaction disk 201. The rack sampler 203 has a "take-in area" along a normal direction D2 approaching the reaction disk 201. The rack sampler 203 has a "return area" along a normal direction D3 leaving the reaction disk 201. The take-in area and return area correspond to a U-shaped area E that protrudes in direction D2 from a portion of the transport area near the reaction disk 201. In other words, the take-in area and the return area may be considered to be the same.

[0030] The sample rack 2031 is an instrument that holds a plurality of sample containers 2032. Specifically, the sample rack 2031 holds five sample containers 2032 in parallel. The sample rack 2031 is transported through the transport area, take-in area, and return area of ​​the rack sampler 203 under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The sample rack 2031 is an example of a sample storage unit.

[0031] The specimen container 2032 is a container for holding a specimen, and is made of glass, polypropylene, acrylic, or the like.

[0032] A sample rack 2031 is placed on one end (right side in FIG. 2 ) of the transport area of ​​the rack sampler 203. In the transport area, the sample rack 2031 is transported along direction D1 to the vicinity of the take-up area. The transported sample rack 2031 is then transported to the take-up area along direction D2. In the take-up area, the sample dispensing arm 206 aspirates the sample from the sample container 2032 in the sample rack 2031 using the sample dispensing probe 207, and dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction container 2011.

[0033] In the return area, the sample rack 2031 from which the sample has been aspirated is transported to the transport area in direction D3. In the transport area, the sample rack 2031 is transported again in direction D1. The sample rack 2031 is collected from the other end of the transport area of ​​the rack sampler 203 (the left side in FIG. 2).

[0034] The first reagent storage 204 is a storage container that holds a plurality of reagent containers 100 arranged in a ring. The first reagent storage 204 transports the plurality of reagent containers 100 along a predetermined path under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The first reagent storage 204 may be covered from above with a removable cover. The first reagent storage 204 is arranged inside the reaction disk 201.

[0035] The second reagent storage 205 is a storage container that holds a plurality of reagent containers 100 arranged in a ring. The second reagent storage 205 transports the plurality of reagent containers 100 along a predetermined path under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The second reagent storage 205 may be covered from above with a removable cover. The second reagent storage 205 is arranged outside the reaction disk 201.

[0036] The reagent container 100 is a container that contains a first reagent or a second reagent. For example, the reagent container 100 in the first reagent storage 204 contains a first reagent. On the other hand, the reagent container 100 in the second reagent storage 205 contains a second reagent. The first reagent is a reagent that reacts with a predetermined component contained in the sample and the standard solution. The second reagent is a reagent that forms a pair with the first reagent in a two-reagent system.

[0037] The sample dispensing arm 206 is a robot arm that holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end. The sample dispensing arm 206 translates vertically and rotates horizontally under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing arm 206 is disposed between the reaction disk 201 and the rack sampler 203. The sample dispensing arm 206 is an example of a dispensing unit.

[0038] The sample dispensing probe 207 is a probe that dispenses a sample into a reaction vessel 2011. The sample dispensing probe 207 moves in the same direction as the sample dispensing arm 206. The sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates a sample from a sample vessel 2032 and dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction vessel 2011 under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The sample dispensing probe 207 is an example of a dispensing unit.

[0039] The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is a robot arm that holds a first reagent dispensing probe 209 at one end. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 translates vertically and rotates horizontally under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The first reagent dispensing arm 208 is disposed between the reaction disk 201 and the first reagent storage 204.

[0040] The first reagent dispensing probe 209 is a probe that dispenses a reagent into a reaction vessel 2011. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 moves in the same direction as the first reagent dispensing arm 208. The first reagent dispensing probe 209 aspirates a reagent from a reagent vessel 100 in the first reagent storage 204 under the control of the drive mechanism 4, and dispenses the aspirated reagent into the reaction vessel 2011.

[0041] The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is a robot arm that holds a second reagent dispensing probe 211 at one end. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 translates vertically and rotates horizontally under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The second reagent dispensing arm 210 is disposed between the reaction disk 201 and the second reagent storage 205.

[0042] The second reagent dispensing probe 211 is a probe that dispenses a reagent into the reaction vessel 2011. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 moves in the same direction as the second reagent dispensing arm 210. The second reagent dispensing probe 211 aspirates a reagent from the reagent vessel 100 in the second reagent storage 205 and dispenses the aspirated reagent into the reaction vessel 2011 under the control of the drive mechanism 4.

[0043] The electrode unit 212 is a unit that electrically measures the electrolyte concentration of the mixed solution contained in the reaction vessel 2011. The electrode unit 212 is disposed adjacent to the reaction disk 201. The electrode unit 212 has an ion selective electrode (ISE) and a reference electrode (RE). The electrode unit 212 measures the potential between the ion selective electrode and the reference electrode for the mixed solution containing the ions to be measured under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The electrode unit 212 generates test data and standard data that represent the measured potential. The electrode unit 212 outputs the generated test data and standard data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0044] The photometry unit 213 is a unit that optically measures the concentration of a predetermined component of the mixed solution contained in the reaction vessel 2011. The photometry unit 213 is disposed adjacent to the reaction disk 201. The photometry unit 213 has a light source and a photodetector. The photometry unit 213 irradiates the reaction vessel 2011 with light from the light source under the control of the drive mechanism 4, and detects the light that has passed through the reaction vessel 2011 with the photodetector.

[0045] First, the photodetector detects light that has passed through the mixture of the specimen and the reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector generates test data represented by transmitted light intensity, scattered light intensity, etc. based on the amount of detected light. Second, the photodetector detects light that has passed through the mixture of the standard solution and the reagent in the reaction vessel 2011. The photodetector generates standard data represented by transmitted light intensity, scattered light intensity, etc. based on the amount of detected light. The photodetector outputs the generated test data and standard data to the analysis circuit 3.

[0046] The cleaning unit 214 is a unit that cleans the inside of the reaction vessel 2011. The cleaning unit 214 is disposed adjacent to the reaction disk 201. The cleaning unit 214 has a cleaning liquid supply pump and a cleaning nozzle. The cleaning unit 214 supplies the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid supply pump to the reaction vessel 2011 under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The cleaning unit 214 sucks the mixed liquid, cleaning liquid, etc. from the reaction vessel 2011 through the cleaning nozzle under the control of the drive mechanism 4.

[0047] The stirring unit 215 is a unit that stirs the mixed liquid contained in the reaction vessel 2011. The stirring unit 215 is disposed adjacent to the reaction disk 201. The stirring unit 215 has a stirrer. The stirring unit 215 stirs the mixed liquid contained in the reaction vessel 2011 with the stirrer under the control of the drive mechanism 4.

[0048] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of each process in sample testing according to the first embodiment. The following shows the flow from when a patient visits the hospital counter to when they undergo sample testing and a diagnosis. This hospital has built a hospital information system, and various types of information are communicated between each department (e.g., reception department, examination department, testing department) via this system.

[0049] (Step S1) First, the patient checks in at the counter (reception department). For example, the patient submits documents such as their health insurance card and patient registration card to a staff member at the counter or to a reception machine. The counter checks the submitted documents and issues the patient a "reception number" that indicates the patient's reception order for the examination. The counter registers the patient's reception order (reception number) in the hospital information system (see Figure 4).

[0050] (Step S2) Next, the counter determines whether the patient is a first-time patient. For example, the counter searches the hospital information system to determine whether the patient has previously received treatment at this hospital. If the patient is a first-time patient (step S2-YES), the process proceeds to step S3. If the patient is not a first-time patient (i.e., a returning patient) (step S2-NO), the process proceeds to step S4.

[0051] (Step S3) In this case, the patient moves to the examination room (examination department) and undergoes a preliminary examination by a doctor. For example, the doctor examines the patient and considers the name of the patient's illness, necessary specimen tests, etc.

[0052] (Step S4) Here, the front desk or doctor issues a test request for the patient. If the patient is not a first-time patient (step S2-NO), the front desk registers the patient's test request in the hospital information system. If the patient has undergone a preliminary examination by a doctor (step S3), the doctor registers the patient's test request in the hospital information system based on the results of the preliminary examination.

[0053] For some patients, test requests are registered immediately without a prior consultation with a doctor. For other patients, test requests are registered after a prior consultation with a doctor. Depending on whether or not a prior consultation has been conducted, the order in which consultations are accepted and the order in which test requests are issued for multiple patients will differ (see Figure 4).

[0054] (Step S5) Next, the nurse accepts the test in the sampling room (testing department). For example, the nurse uses the hospital information system to confirm the patient's test request issued at the counter or by the doctor. The nurse then calls the patient associated with the confirmed test request to the sampling room. The called patient moves from the counter or examination room to the sampling room. The nurse confirms that the patient associated with the test request is the same as the patient called to the sampling room, and accepts the patient's test. The nurse registers the test reception order (reception number) in the hospital information system.

[0055] Some patients may be careless and not notice when a nurse calls. In addition, particularly in large hospitals, the route from the reception desk or examination room to the collection room can be long or complicated, making it difficult for patients to move smoothly to the collection room. Due to human error, the order in which test requests are issued for multiple patients differs from the order in which the tests are received.

[0056] (Step S6) Next, the nurse collects a sample in the collection room. For example, the nurse collects a sample such as blood from the patient. The nurse places the collected sample in a sample container 2032. An identifier such as a barcode is attached to the sample container 2032 to prevent confusion with other sample containers 2032. After the sample is collected, the patient waits in the waiting room to be examined by a doctor.

[0057] (Step S7) Next, the nurse issues a measurement request in the sampling room. For example, the nurse registers a measurement request for the sample contained in the sample container 2032 in the hospital information system. The nurse transports the sample container 2032 related to the measurement request to the measurement room by some means.

[0058] As mentioned above, the order in which test requests for multiple patients are issued is different from the order in which the tests are received. This difference is carried over to the measurement request issuing process (step S7) located downstream of the test reception process (step S5). Therefore, the order in which test requests for multiple patients are issued is different from the order in which measurement requests are issued (see FIG. 4).

[0059] (Step S8) Next, the laboratory technician accepts the measurement in the measurement room (testing department). For example, the laboratory technician confirms the sample measurement request issued by the nurse in the hospital information system. The laboratory technician accepts the sample container 2032 containing the sample related to the confirmed measurement request. The laboratory technician registers the sample acceptance order (reception number) in the hospital information system.

[0060] (Step S9) Next, the laboratory technician performs sample measurement in the measurement room. For example, the laboratory technician performs the necessary pretreatment of the sample (e.g., centrifugation) and places the pretreated sample in a sample container 2032. The laboratory technician places the sample container 2032 in a sample rack 2031, and places the sample rack 2031 on the rack sampler 203. The automated analyzer 1 transports the sample rack 2031 placed on the rack sampler 203, and measures the sample in the sample container 2032 (see FIG. 2).

[0061] For some samples, a certain type of pretreatment is performed. For other samples, a different type of pretreatment or no pretreatment is performed. The order in which measurement requests are issued and the order in which samples are measured differ depending on the type of pretreatment or whether or not it is performed (see Figure 4).

[0062] (Step S10) Next, the laboratory technician reports the results in the measurement room. For example, the laboratory technician creates a test report using the measurement results of the sample output from the output IF 7 of the automatic analyzer 1. The laboratory technician registers the created test report in the hospital information system.

[0063] (Step S11) Finally, the doctor diagnoses the patient in the examination room. For example, the doctor checks the examination report registered by the medical technician in the hospital information system. The doctor calls the patient from the waiting room to the examination room and diagnoses the patient's illness, etc.

[0064] 4 is a diagram showing an example of the processing order of each process in the sample testing according to the first embodiment. Tables 110, 120, 130, and 140 show the processing order of each process in the sample testing for 10 different patients (ID: 001-010). The information shown in tables 110, 120, 130, and 140 is registered in the hospital information system.

[0065] Table 110 shows the order of consultation reception (see step S1). According to table 110, the first patient to be checked in for consultation is "001," and the second patient to be checked in for consultation is "002."

[0066] Table 120 shows the order in which test requests were issued (see step S4). According to table 120, the first test request was issued to patient "006," and the second test request was issued to patient "007." Meanwhile, the test request for patient "001" was issued sixth, and the test request for patient "002" was issued seventh.

[0067] Table 130 shows the order in which measurement requests were issued (see step S7). According to table 130, the first measurement request was issued to patient "001," and the second test request was issued to patient "007." Meanwhile, the measurement request for patient "002" was issued ninth.

[0068] Table 140 shows the order in which the samples were measured (see step S9). According to table 140, the patient whose sample was measured first was "007," and the patient whose sample was measured second was "008." Meanwhile, the sample from patient "001" was measured fifth, and the sample from patient "002" was measured seventh.

[0069] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the first embodiment. In the following, the information shown in tables 110, 120, and 130 is registered in the hospital information system. The information shown in table 140 does not necessarily have to be registered in the hospital information system.

[0070] (Step S101) First, the automatic analyzer 1 acquires the order information R using the acquisition function 91. For example, the acquisition function 91 accesses the hospital information system via the communication IF 8 and acquires the order information R including at least one of the tables 110, 120, and 130.

[0071] The acquisition function 91 may acquire the order information R specified by the user of the automatic analysis device 1. For example, the user specifies the desired order information R via the input IF6. If the user specifies table 110, the acquisition function 91 acquires table 110. On the other hand, if the user specifies tables 110 and 120, the acquisition function 91 acquires tables 110 and 120. In other words, the acquisition function 91 acquires the order information R according to the user's preferences.

[0072] (Step S102) Next, the automatic analyzer 1 sets a priority P using the setting function 92. For example, the setting function 92 sets a different priority P for each of the multiple patients based on the order information R acquired in step S101.

[0073] First, assume that the order information R is table 110, 120, or 130. In this case, the setting function 92 sets the priority P in accordance with the order information R (see FIGS. 6 and 7). Second, assume that the order information R includes at least two of tables 110, 120, and 130. In this case, the setting function 92 sets the priority P based on the order information R, a weight for table 110, a weight for table 120, and a weight for table 130. Each weight may be set to an arbitrary value by the user (see FIG. 8).

[0074] (Step S103) Next, the automatic analyzer 1 determines the measurement order using the determination function 93. For example, the determination function 93 determines the measurement order of each sample from multiple patients based on the priority P set in step S102. In particular, the determination function 93 determines the measurement order of the samples according to the priority P (i.e., in descending order of priority P) (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 8).

[0075] (Step S104) Next, the automated analyzer 1 measures the samples using the system control function 94. For example, the system control function 94 causes the analysis mechanism 2 to measure each sample from a plurality of patients in accordance with the measurement order determined in step S103 (see FIG. 9).

[0076] (Step S105) Finally, the automatic analyzer 1 outputs the measurement results using the system control function 94. For example, the system control function 94 causes the analysis mechanism 2 to output the measurement results of the sample measured in step S104.

[0077] 6 is a diagram showing a first example of a method for determining the measurement order of samples according to the first embodiment. In this example, the acquisition function 91 acquires a table 110 as order information R. The setting function 92 sets a higher priority P for patients whose order of appointment in the table 110 is earlier. For example, as shown in table 111, the setting function 92 sets the highest priority "1" for patient "001" and the second highest priority "2" for patient "002."

[0078] The determination function 93 determines the sample measurement order by sorting multiple patients in descending order of the priority P set for each patient. For example, the determination function 93 determines patient "001", who has been set a priority of "1", to be "first" in the measurement order, and determines patient "002", who has been set a priority of "2", to be "second" in the measurement order. As a result, as shown in table 141, the sample measurement order is the same as the order in which the patients are accepted for consultation.

[0079] 7 is a diagram showing examples of the sample measurement order according to the first embodiment. When the order information R is table 110, 120, or 130, the determination function 93 determines the sample measurement order so that it is the same as the order of multiple patients in the order information R. As a result, the sample measurement order in table 140 is changed to the sample measurement order shown in table 141, 142, or 143. The order in table 142 is the same as the order in table 120 (the order in which test requests are issued). The order in table 143 is the same as the order in table 130 (the order in which measurement requests are issued).

[0080] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a second example of the method for determining the measurement order of samples according to the first embodiment. In this example, the acquisition function 91 acquires tables 110, 120, and 130 as order information R. Table 110 corresponds to "table A" and is set with a weight of "x1.0". Table 120 corresponds to "table B" and is set with a weight of "x0.8". Table 130 corresponds to "table C" and is set with a weight of "x0.5". For ease of explanation, the order of table 110 is different from the order of table A. The order of table 120 is different from the order of table B. The order of table 130 is different from the order of table C.

[0081] As shown in table 150, the setting function 92 sets "scores" for 10 different patients (ID: 001-010) according to their order in table A. Specifically, the setting function 92 sets higher scores for patients who are earlier in the order in table A. For example, the setting function 92 sets a score of "4" for patient "001" with order "7" and a score of "3" for patient "002" with order "8."

[0082] The setting function 92 calculates a "weighted score" for each patient by weighting the score set for each patient by the weight "x1.0" of Table A. For example, the setting function 92 calculates a weighted score of "4.0" by weighting the score "4" of patient "001" by the weight "x1.0".

[0083] The setting function 92 calculates the weighted scores for each patient in tables B and C by repeating the same process as above for tables B and C. The setting function 92 calculates the "total weighted score" for each patient by adding the weighted scores for each patient in tables A, B, and C. For example, for patient "001," the setting function 92 calculates a total weighted score of "8.6" by adding the weighted score of "4.0" for table A, the weighted score of "1.6" for table B, and the weighted score of "3.0" for table C.

[0084] The setting function 92 sets a higher priority P for patients with higher total weighted scores. For example, the setting function 92 sets the highest priority "1" for patient "007" with a total weighted score of "20.5" and the second highest priority "2" for patient "008" with a total weighted score of "17.7".

[0085] The determination function 93 determines the sample measurement order by sorting multiple patients in descending order of the priority P set for each patient. For example, the determination function 93 determines patient "007", who has been set a priority of "1", to be "first" in the measurement order, and determines patient "008", who has been set a priority of "2", to be "second" in the measurement order. As a result, the sample measurement order is determined as shown in table 145.

[0086] 9 is a diagram showing an example of the measurement order and aspiration order of samples according to the first embodiment. Sample racks 2031A and 2031B are two different sample racks 2031. A plurality of sample containers 2032A and 2032B are placed in the sample racks 2031A and 2031B, and each sample is accommodated in one of the sample containers. A number indicating the measurement order is assigned to each sample.

[0087] The sample rack 2031A has five sample containers 2032A. The five samples contained in the five sample containers 2032A are assigned numbers "1," "7," "3," "9," and "5" indicating the measurement order. The sample rack 2031B has five sample containers 2032B. The five samples contained in the five sample containers 2032B are assigned numbers "6," "2," "8," "4," and "10" indicating the measurement order.

[0088] Here, it is assumed that sample racks 2031A and 2031B are transported to the intake area (area E) of the rack sampler 203 of the analysis mechanism 2 (see Figure 2). When performing the aspirating process for each sample rack 2031 (i), the analysis mechanism 2 aspirates each sample from sample rack 2031A, and then aspirates each sample from sample rack 2031B. In this case, the aspirating order of the samples is "1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10."

[0089] On the other hand, when performing the aspirating process on multiple sample racks 2031 at once (ii), the analyzing mechanism 2 aspirates each sample from the sample racks 2031A and 2031B. In this case, the aspirating order of each sample is "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10." Note that the user may set whether the analyzing mechanism 2 performs the aspirating process on each sample rack 2031 or on multiple sample racks 2031 at once.

[0090] According to the first embodiment described above, the automated analyzer 1 determines the measurement order of samples for multiple patients so that the order is the same as the order in which consultations for the multiple patients are received or the order in which test requests are issued. The automated analyzer 1 measures each sample in the determined measurement order and outputs the measurement results for each sample. A doctor diagnoses each patient based on the output measurement results.

[0091] Therefore, patients can receive diagnoses from doctors in the order in which they are admitted to the clinic. Meanwhile, doctors can diagnose patients in the order in which their test requests are issued. Meanwhile, laboratory technicians can concentrate on their own work, as the likelihood of receiving inquiries from doctors about delays in reporting measurement results is reduced. In other words, the automatic analyzer 1 can improve the workflow and work efficiency related to sample testing.

[0092] Furthermore, the automatic analyzer 1 determines the measurement order of samples for each of multiple patients based on multiple types of order information R, including the order in which consultations for multiple patients are accepted and the order in which test requests are issued. In particular, the automatic analyzer 1 determines the measurement order of samples after weighting specific order information R more heavily than other order information R in accordance with user specifications. Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 can appropriately determine the measurement order of samples to suit the user's preferences.

[0093] Furthermore, when data on the order of a specific patient (specimen) in specific order information R is missing, the automatic analyzer 1 can use data on the order of that patient (specimen) in other order information R. In other words, by using multiple types of order information R, the automatic analyzer 1 can complement the missing data and appropriately determine the measurement order of the specimens.

[0094] (Second embodiment) 10 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the analysis mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment. The analysis mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment includes a sample disk 2531 instead of the rack sampler 203 and the sample rack 2031. The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0095] The sample disk 2531 is a disk that holds a plurality of sample containers 2532 arranged in a ring shape. The sample disk 2531 transports the plurality of sample containers 2532 along a predetermined path under the control of the drive mechanism 4. The sample disk 2531 may be covered from above with a removable cover. The sample disk 2531 is arranged adjacent to the reaction disk 201. The sample disk 2531 is an example of a sample storage unit.

[0096] The specimen container 2532 is a container for holding a specimen, and is made of glass, polypropylene, acrylic, or the like.

[0097] The sample dispensing arm 206 holds a sample dispensing probe 207 at one end and is disposed between the reaction disk 201 and the sample disk 2531. The sample dispensing probe 207 aspirates the sample from the sample container 2532 and dispenses the aspirated sample into the reaction container 2011 under the control of the drive mechanism 4.

[0098] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment. When a new sample is added to the sample disk 2531, the automatic analyzer 1 according to the second embodiment redetermines the measurement order of the samples, including the new sample. Steps S201 to S204 executed the first time are the same as steps S101 to S104 (see FIG. 5).

[0099] (Step S205) Here, the automatic analyzer 1 uses the decision function 93 to determine whether a new sample has been added to the sample disk 2531. For example, the decision function 93 determines whether a sample container 2532 containing a new sample has been placed on the sample disk 2531 and the barcode (identifier) ​​of the placed sample container 2532 has been read. The decision function 93 determines that a new sample has been added if the barcode has been read by a reader (not shown) of the analysis mechanism 2. If a new sample has been added (step S205-YES), the process returns to step S201. If a new sample has not been added (step S205-NO), the process proceeds to step S206.

[0100] (Step S201: Again) In this case, the automatic analyzer 1 uses the acquisition function 91 to acquire sequence information R for the new sample whose addition was determined in step S205. For example, the acquisition function 91 acquires sequence information R, such as the order in which the examination was received and the order in which test requests were issued, for the patient from whom the new sample was collected. Step S201 is the same as step S101.

[0101] (Step S202: Again) Next, the automatic analyzer 1 uses the setting function 92 to set a priority P for the new sample whose addition was determined in step S205. For example, the setting function 92 sets a different priority P for each of multiple patients, including the patient from whom the new sample was collected, based on the order information R acquired in step S201. Step S202 is similar to step S102.

[0102] (Step S203: Again) Next, the automatic analyzer 1 uses the decision function 93 to determine the measurement order for the new samples whose addition was determined in step S205. For example, the decision function 93 determines the measurement order for each sample from multiple patients based on the priority P set in step S202. Step S203 is similar to step S103.

[0103] (Step S204: Again) Next, the automated analyzer 1 uses the system control function 94 to measure each sample, including the new sample whose addition was determined in step S205. For example, the system control function 94 causes the analysis mechanism 2 to measure each sample from multiple patients according to the measurement order determined in step S203. Step S204 is similar to step S104. After step S204, the process again proceeds to step S205.

[0104] (Step S206) Here, the automatic analyzer 1 uses the decision function 93 to determine whether the analysis mechanism 2 has measured all of the samples on the sample disk 2531. If all of the samples have been measured (step S206-YES), the process proceeds to step S207. If all of the samples have not been measured (step S206-NO), the process returns to step S204.

[0105] (Step S207) Finally, the automated analyzer 1 outputs the measurement results using the system control function 94. For example, the system control function 94 causes the analysis mechanism 2 to output the measurement results for the sample measured in step S204. Step S207 is similar to step S105.

[0106] 12 is a diagram showing an example of the measurement order and suction order of a sample according to the second embodiment. Each sample is accommodated in a plurality of sample containers 2532 placed on a sample disk 2531. A number indicating the measurement order is assigned to each sample.

[0107] As shown in Figure 12(A), the sample disk 2531 has ten sample containers 2532. The ten samples contained in the ten sample containers 2532 are numbered "1" to "10." The analysis mechanism 2 aspirates each sample from the sample disk 2531 in ascending order of the numbers. The aspirating order of the samples is "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10."

[0108] As shown in Figure 12(B), the analysis mechanism 2 aspirates each of the samples numbered "1" to "5." After that, new samples "A" to "E" are added to the sample disk 2531 in place of the aspirated samples. The determination function 93 re-determines the measurement order of each sample placed on the sample disk 2531, including the new samples "A" to "E" (see Figure 11).

[0109] 12(C), the analyzing mechanism 2 aspirates each sample from the sample disk 2531 in accordance with the re-determined measurement order. The re-determined aspirating order of each sample is "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10."

[0110] For example, the aspiration order of the new sample "A" is "second" in the re-determined aspiration order. That is, the new sample "A" is aspirated after the sample numbered "6" in FIG. 12(B) and before the samples numbered "7" to "10." In this way, the new sample "A" interrupts the already determined aspiration order and is preferentially aspirated before some of the samples.

[0111] Similarly, new specimens "C," "D," and "E" are aspirated preferentially, interrupting the already determined aspirating order. On the other hand, new specimen "B" does not interrupt the already determined aspirating order. New specimen "B" is aspirated after specimens numbered "6" to "10" in Figure 12(B) have been aspirated.

[0112] According to the second embodiment described above, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, when a new sample is added to the sample disk 2531, the automatic analyzer 1 re-determines the measurement order (aspiration order) of each sample, including the new sample. The automatic analyzer 1 measures each sample according to the re-determined measurement order.

[0113] Therefore, the automatic analyzer 1 can give priority to measuring samples whose placement on the sample disk 2531 has been delayed due to pre-processing or the like. This reduces the likelihood that a laboratory technician will receive an inquiry from a doctor about a delay in reporting the measurement results for that sample, allowing the technician to concentrate on their own work. In other words, the automatic analyzer 1 can improve the workflow and operational efficiency of sample testing.

[0114] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the measurement order of the samples can be appropriately determined.

[0115] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1 Automatic analyzer 2 Analysis mechanism 3 Analysis circuit 4. Drive mechanism 5 Memory circuit 6 Input IF 7 Output IF 8. Communication Interface 9 Control Circuit 91 Acquisition Function 92 Setting Function 93 Decision Function 94 System Control Functions 100 reagent containers 110,111,120,130,140,141,142,143,145,150 Table 201 Reaction Disk 202 Constant temperature bath 203 Rack Sampler 204 Reagent Storage No. 1 205 Second Reagent Storage 206 Sample dispensing arm 207 Sample Dispensing Probe 208 First reagent dispensing arm 209 First Reagent Dispensing Probe 210 Second reagent dispensing arm 211 Second reagent dispensing probe 212 Electrode Unit 213 Photometric Unit 214 Cleaning Unit 215 Mixing Unit 2011 Reaction Vessel 2031, 2031A, 2031B Sample Rack 2032, 2032A, 2032B, 2532 Sample container 2531 Sample Disk

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires order information including at least one of an order of reception of consultations for a plurality of patients and an order of issuance of test requests; a setting unit that sets different priorities for the plurality of patients based on the order information; a determination unit that determines the measurement order of each sample of the plurality of patients based on the priority; An automatic analyzer comprising:

2. The order information is the order of reception of the consultations or the order of issuance of the test requests, the setting unit sets the priority in accordance with the order information; the determination unit determines the measurement order of the samples according to the priority. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

3. the order information includes an order of reception of the consultations and an order of issuance of the test requests; the setting unit sets the priority based on the order information, a weight for the order of reception of the examinations, and a weight for the order of issuance of the examination requests; the determination unit determines the measurement order of the samples according to the priority. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

4. The order information is specified by a user. The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

5. a dispensing unit that aspirates the specimen from a specimen storage unit that stores the specimen according to the specimen measurement order and dispenses the aspirated specimen into a reaction vessel; The automatic analyzer according to claim 1 .

6. When a new sample is added to the sample storage unit, the determination unit determines the measurement order of the samples, including the new sample. The automatic analyzer according to claim 5 .

7. an acquisition unit acquires order information including at least one of an order of reception of consultations for a plurality of patients and an order of issuance of test requests; a setting unit that sets different priorities for the plurality of patients based on the order information; a determination unit determining a measurement order of the samples of each of the plurality of patients based on the priority; How to decide.

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