SpeedsPath Glossary of Terms

Laboratory Workflow

Laboratory Workflow refers to the structured sequence of tasks, processes, and activities followed within a pathology laboratory to ensure smooth specimen handling, accurate testing, efficient reporting, and quality compliance. In pathology lab management software (LIMS), workflow automation standardizes each step—from test ordering to report delivery—improving efficiency, traceability, and turnaround time.

What Is Laboratory Workflow?

Laboratory Workflow is the step-by-step process enabled by LIMS to manage specimens, testing, interpretation, and reporting in an organized, automated manner. It encompasses the entire lifecycle of a sample in the lab, from receipt to final results.

Why Laboratory Workflow Matters in Pathology Labs?

Laboratory Workflow is essential for maintaining high standards in pathology labs. It improves efficiency, reduces errors, ensures consistency, and enhances turnaround time (TAT). By automating routine tasks, labs can focus on critical analysis and patient care.

Key reasons include:

• End-to-end process automation from patient registration to final report dispatch.
• Standardized specimen handling including accessioning, labeling, and tracking.
• Workflow routing based on test type (histopathology, cytology, biochemistry, microbiology, etc.).
• Real-time status tracking of each sample, test, and report.
• Quality control checkpoints integrated into the workflow.
• Automated task assignment to technicians and pathologists.
• Reduced manual errors through barcode-based specimen identification.
• Seamless communication between departments (collection, processing, reporting).
• Alerts and notifications for pending tests, delayed TAT, and critical values.
• Documentation and audit-ready tracking for laboratory accreditation (CAP, NABL, CLIA).

How Laboratory Workflow Works in a Laboratory Information System (LIS)?

In a modern LIS like SpeedsPath, laboratory workflow becomes seamless through digitization. Tasks such as test ordering, sample accessioning, process routing, result entry, QC, and report generation are automated, minimizing manual intervention and ensuring accuracy.

Key Steps or Components of Laboratory Workflow

• Specimen receipt and accessioning
• Test ordering and routing
• Sample processing and analysis
• Result entry and validation
• Report generation and delivery
• Quality control and auditing

Benefits of Using LIS for Laboratory Workflow

• Improved efficiency and reduced TAT
• Minimized errors through automation
• Enhanced traceability and compliance
• Better resource utilization
• Real-time monitoring and analytics

Common Challenges Without LIS Automation

• Manual errors in specimen handling
• Delays in processing and reporting
• Poor traceability leading to compliance issues
• Inefficient resource allocation
• Difficulty in managing high volumes

Examples of Laboratory Workflow in Pathology

• Automating histopathology slide preparation and review
• Streamlining cytology sample processing
• Managing molecular diagnostic assays

SpeedsPath Makes Laboratory Workflow Accurate & Effortless

Laboratory Workflow is central to managing operations in pathology labs. Automating this with an LIS adds speed, precision, and accountability.

See how SpeedsPath automates workflows, tracks samples, and streamlines processes.

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Related Terms

• Accessioning
• Specimen Tracking
• Turnaround Time (TAT)
• Quality Control
• Laboratory Information System (LIS)

FAQs

1. What is a laboratory workflow in pathology LIMS?
   It is the step-by-step process enabled by LIMS to manage specimens, testing, interpretation, and reporting in an organized, automated manner.
2. Why is laboratory workflow important in a pathology lab?
   It improves efficiency, reduces errors, ensures consistency, and enhances turnaround time (TAT).
3. How does LIMS automate laboratory workflow?
   By digitizing tasks such as test ordering, sample accessioning, process routing, result entry, QC, and report generation.
4. Can the workflow be customized for different pathology departments?
   Yes, LIMS supports customizable workflows for histopathology, cytology, hematology, microbiology, etc.
5. What role does barcode labeling play in workflow?
   Barcode labeling ensures accurate specimen identification and tracking throughout the workflow.
6. Does workflow automation reduce turnaround time (TAT)?
   Yes, automation ensures faster processing and fewer delays, improving overall TAT.
7. Can LIMS track workflow bottlenecks?
   Yes, dashboards and analytics identify delays in processing, reporting, or approval stages.
8. How does the workflow support quality control?
   It integrates QC rules, flags abnormal results, and ensures compliance with laboratory standards.
9. Is laboratory workflow helpful during audits?
   Absolutely. LIMS maintains complete traceability, timestamps, and activity logs that simplify audits.
10. Can workflow automation improve communication among lab staff?
    Yes, automated task assignments, notifications, and status updates enhance coordination between technicians and pathologists.

Want to learn more? Explore our LIS Glossary or check out our expert blogs on Anatomic Pathology, Molecular Diagnostics, Cytology, and Lab Information Systems.