Sample Priority Identifier Segmentation for STAT Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In diagnostic laboratories, it is currently not possible to change the sample processing priority from routine to urgent (STAT) after initial registration, due to concerns about maintaining unique sample identification and traceability, which can lead to conflicts and confusion between host and sample processing devices.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that allows changing the sample processing priority from lower to higher priority before processing, by generating a communication message with specific priority identifiers and updating the message to maintain sample uniqueness and traceability, enabling routine samples to be processed as STAT samples if needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the sample processing priority is changed from routine to STAT after initial registration, then the sample can be processed more urgently, but the unique sample identification and traceability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The priority identifier is segmented into different types: original priority identifiers (for initial routing) and change priority identifiers (for priority changes). This segmentation allows the system to track that a priority change occurred while maintaining the ability to trace the sample's journey, thus resolving the contradiction between urgent processing and traceability
Solution Approach 2:
The communication message acts as an intermediary carrier that transports priority information between the host system and sample processing device. By embedding both original and changed priority identifiers in this message, the system maintains a complete audit trail of priority changes while enabling urgent processing when needed
2Productivity
If the sample processing priority is changed after message transmission, then urgent samples can be processed promptly, but conflicts and confusion may arise between host and sample processing device
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically updates the communication message with change priority identifiers when priority changes occur, while maintaining compatibility with the original message format. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing priorities without causing conflicts, as both the host and sample processing device can interpret the updated message consistently
Solution Approach 2:
The priority identifier parameter is changed from its original value to a change priority identifier value when priority changes occur. This parameter change mechanism allows the system to reflect current priority status while maintaining traceability of the change, thus improving urgent sample processing without compromising system consistency
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a computer implemented method of managing sample processing priorities in a diagnostic laboratory comprising at least one sample processing device connected to a host system. The method comprises generating a communication message between the host system and the at least one sample processing device related to a sample processing order received in association with a sample, the message comprising one of at least two priority identifiers (R, S) indicative of respective sample processing priorities from lower priority to higher priority according to the received sample processing order. The method further comprises identifying the sample by the at least one sample processing device and processing the sample by the at least one sample processing device according to the sample processing priority (S, R) in the message. In case of receiving a subsequent request for change of sample processing priority for the sample from a lower priority to a higher priority after transmission of the message and before the sample is processed, the method comprises changing the message and processing the sample as a higher priority sample instead of as a lower priority sample, wherein changing the message comprises changing the lower priority identifier (R) to an identifier (CS) indicative of a change of priority but different from an equivalent higher priority identifier (S) in order to maintain the sample and the sample processing order uniquely identifiable and traceable by both the host system and the at least one sample processing device. A respective system for managing sample processing priorities is herein also disclosed.