Reportable Range
A Reportable Range is the range of test results that a laboratory can reliably measure and report to doctors and patients. Think of it like a ruler that can only measure between 1 and 12 inches - anything outside these limits can't be measured accurately. In medical testing, knowing these ranges is crucial because it tells healthcare providers what results they can trust. Laboratory professionals work to validate and maintain these ranges to ensure test results are accurate and reliable for patient care.
Examples in Resumes
Established and validated Reportable Range for new diagnostic tests across multiple platforms
Performed monthly verification of Reportable Range for critical care testing instruments
Led team in expanding Reportable Ranges for high-sensitivity tumor markers
Typical job title: "Clinical Laboratory Scientists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Clinical Laboratory Scientists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you establish a new reportable range for a test method?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should explain the process of gathering control materials, running validation studies, and documenting results. They should mention working with manufacturers' guidelines and regulatory requirements, plus describe how they would train staff on new ranges.
Q: What steps would you take if test results consistently fall outside the reportable range?
Expected Answer: Should discuss investigating the cause, including instrument maintenance, reagent quality, and possible method modifications. Should mention documenting incidents, communicating with healthcare providers, and implementing corrective actions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you verify reportable ranges on a regular basis?
Expected Answer: Should explain routine quality control procedures, including running controls at different levels, documenting results, and recognizing when ranges need adjustment.
Q: What documentation is needed for reportable range studies?
Expected Answer: Should describe maintaining records of validation studies, quality control data, and any range modifications. Should mention regulatory requirements for documentation.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a reportable range and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's the range of values a lab can reliably report and why accurate ranges are crucial for patient care decisions.
Q: What do you do when a result falls outside the reportable range?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic procedures like diluting samples, notifying supervisors, and following laboratory protocols for handling such situations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of quality control
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures
- Knowledge of basic laboratory safety
- Familiar with common laboratory instruments
Mid (2-5 years)
- Verification of established ranges
- Quality control monitoring
- Method validation assistance
- Troubleshooting skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Method validation leadership
- Range establishment expertise
- Quality system management
- Staff training and supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of understanding of basic quality control principles
- No experience with laboratory information systems
- Unable to explain validation procedures
- Poor documentation practices
- No knowledge of regulatory requirements
