Which option identifies a deviation from standard test procedures including the use of expired reagents?

Which option identifies a deviation from standard test procedures including the use of expired reagents?

• A. Refusal to participate in EQAP
• B. Issuance of a laboratory report without approval
• C. Deviation from the standard test procedures including use of expired reagents
• D. DOH-LTO will be revoked

Answer: (C)

Deviating from standard test procedures by using expired reagents directly signals noncompliance with laboratory SOPs and quality management requirements. Standard procedures require checking reagent shelf life and proper storage to ensure accurate, reliable results. Expired reagents can alter assay performance, leading to incorrect results and patient risk, so this specific deviation clearly reflects a breach of procedure and quality controls. The other issues are violations of process or governance (not the explicit procedural deviation involving expired reagents) and may be consequences or related concerns, but they don’t describe the direct act of using expired reagents within standard testing.

Deviating from standard test procedures by using expired reagents directly signals noncompliance with laboratory SOPs and quality management requirements. Standard procedures require checking reagent shelf life and proper storage to ensure accurate, reliable results. Expired reagents can alter assay performance, leading to incorrect results and patient risk, so this specific deviation clearly reflects a breach of procedure and quality controls. The other issues are violations of process or governance (not the explicit procedural deviation involving expired reagents) and may be consequences or related concerns, but they don’t describe the direct act of using expired reagents within standard testing.