Assoc. Professor Stathis KonstantinidisYASMEEN IBRAHIM SAAD ALTOKHAIS2022-05-262022-05-26https://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/34313Background Patient and sample identification and tracking are major patient safety concerns and essentials in laboratory quality management. Sample errors can lead to patient harm due to either inappropriate or delayed diagnosis/treatment or prolonged hospitalisation. Particularly, anatomical pathology samples are more fragile and sensitive than other laboratory samples, and in most cases, obtaining another sample is unfeasible in loss events and may deprive patients of being diagnosed or treated. Objectives The aim of this dissertation is to answer the question (How effective is Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in reducing sample errors?) by searching and critically evaluating the relevant literature. Based on the reviewed evidence, a quality improvement project for the implementation of an RFID sample tracking system in pathology laboratories using lean six sigma methodology is proposed, with the following objectives, to increase the efficiency of laboratory services, reduce sample recovery and turnaround time (TAT) and improve the process workflow. Method The search strategy followed Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI’s) systematic review methodology to answer the research question. The resulted data were extracted and synthesised into themes that inform a background for the quality improvement proposal. The proposed plan was developed for the implementation of RFID technology in pathology laboratories using the lean six-sigma define, measure, analyse, improve and control (DMAIC) framework as the primary implementation methodology. Results A significant reduction in sample errors by applying RFID technology in laboratories, improved workflow and staff satisfaction were reported in the literature. RFID tag interference and security concerns arose, and different approaches were taken to tackle these problems. The use of lean principles and six sigma methodologies in laboratories produced improvements in laboratory services – including reducing sample errors, improving workflow and saving cost and time. However, changes in the process workflow without an additional built- in system seems to be less sustainable compared to initiatives with RFID technology. Conclusion After reviewing the available literature, it can be concluded that there is no specific approach or framework that agreed on for the implementation of RFID using lean and six sigma methodologies in laboratories. To date, several researchers have discussed the potential benefits and challenges of RFID application in healthcare and in clinical laboratories specifically. Yet practical studies are limited but promising on the application of RFID in laboratory sample tracking. An important finding that emerged in this study is the feasibility of applying RFID technology in pathology laboratories with an acceptable cost and rapid return on investment.en