Carry-over
Carry-over refers to the unintended transfer of material from one sample to another during laboratory testing. It's like when a tiny amount from one patient's sample accidentally mixes with the next patient's sample in testing equipment. Understanding carry-over is crucial in medical laboratories because it can affect test results' accuracy. Laboratory professionals need to know how to prevent, detect, and manage carry-over to ensure patient results are reliable. This concept is particularly important in automated testing systems where many samples are processed one after another.
Examples in Resumes
Developed protocols to minimize carry-over in automated chemistry analyzers
Conducted carry-over studies to validate new laboratory equipment
Implemented carry-over detection and prevention strategies in high-volume testing
Typical job title: "Laboratory Technologists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Laboratory Technologists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a laboratory-wide carry-over prevention program?
Expected Answer: Should discuss comprehensive approach including staff training, equipment maintenance, regular testing protocols, documentation procedures, and quality control measures to prevent and detect carry-over.
Q: How do you validate that carry-over is not affecting patient results in a new analyzer?
Expected Answer: Should explain process of running specific test sequences, analyzing high-concentration followed by low-concentration samples, documenting results, and establishing acceptable limits.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take when carry-over is detected in routine testing?
Expected Answer: Should describe immediate actions like stopping testing, investigating cause, implementing corrective measures, and documenting incident according to laboratory procedures.
Q: How do you train staff to recognize and prevent carry-over?
Expected Answer: Should discuss training methods, practical demonstrations, quality control procedures, and ongoing monitoring of staff performance.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is carry-over and why is it important to prevent it?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of sample contamination between tests and its impact on patient results accuracy.
Q: What are some basic steps to prevent carry-over in manual testing?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper sample handling, equipment cleaning, following procedures, and asking for help when unsure.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic laboratory procedures
- Understanding of carry-over concept
- Following established protocols
- Basic quality control procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Carry-over detection and prevention
- Equipment maintenance procedures
- Quality control implementation
- Staff training and supervision
Senior (5+ years)
- Laboratory-wide quality management
- Validation protocol development
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Policy and procedure development
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of understanding about basic laboratory safety procedures
- No experience with quality control measures
- Unable to explain importance of sample integrity
- Poor documentation practices
- Lack of attention to detail
Related Terms
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