The following hemoglobin results, reported in g/dL, are obtained on a hospitalized patient on 3 consecutive days:

The SD for this hemoglobin method was calculated in Question 18. A delta check was obtained on day 2. Controls were run as appropriate each day and were all within limits for this procedure.
What is the most probable reason for the day 2 result when compared with those for days 1 and 3?

Question

The following hemoglobin results, reported in g/dL, are obtained on a hospitalized patient on 3 consecutive days:

The SD for this hemoglobin method was calculated in Question 18. A delta check was obtained on day 2. Controls were run as appropriate each day and were all within limits for this procedure.
What is the most probable reason for the day 2 result when compared with those for days 1 and 3?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A delta check is a comparison of a current test result with previous results from the same patient. If the result differs significantly, it may indicate an error in patient identification, sample collection, or analysis. Since the controls were within limits and the other days' results were similar, it is unlikely that the result on day 2 represents a true change in the patient's hemoglobin level. Therefore, the most probable reason is an error in patient identification.

The Following Hemoglobin Results, Reported in G/dL, Are Obtained on a Hospitalized