Why Quality Control is Needed in Urine Microscopy Testing

A few reasons you should think about implementing Controls in yoiur urine Microscopy testing.

  1. Accuracy & Reliability

    • Microscopy is semi-subjective, relying on human interpretation. QCs help standardise this process across different operators and instruments.

  2. Detection of Errors

    • Quality controls highlight analytical errors, operator mistakes, equipment malfunctions, and reagent issues before patient results are reported.

  3. Compliance & Accreditation

    • Regulatory standards (e.g., UKAS under ISO 15189) mandate robust QC processes. Regular use of controls ensures compliance with these standards.

What Should NHS Labs Be Looking For in Urine Microscopy QC?

  1. Cell Types & Consistency

    • RBCs, WBCs, casts, crystals, and bacteria should be present at known levels. Labs must confirm these are detected consistently and accurately.

  2. Morphology Recognition

    • Ensure correct identification of shapes and types of cells or particles.

  3. Reproducibility

    • Same results across different shifts, machines, and staff—validating reproducibility of testing.

  4. Staff Proficiency

    • Identify training needs by reviewing QC results. If inconsistencies appear, it may indicate a need for retraining.

Training and Quality Procedures

  1. Staff Competency Assessments

    • Regular assessment of microscopy skills using QCs ensures staff stay proficient.

    • Trainees can be tested against control samples to verify learning.

  2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

    • SOPs should detail how controls are run, how results are recorded, and how deviations are managed.

    • Helps ensure consistent practice even when personnel changes.

  3. Internal & External QC Programs

    • Internal QC: Run daily/weekly controls with known values.

    • External Quality Assessment (EQA): Participation in national schemes like UK WEQAS / NEQAS to benchmark performance.

 Benefits of a Liquid Control with a Long Shelf Life

  1. Ready-to-Use

    • Liquid format avoids time-consuming reconstitution and potential errors during preparation.

    • Saves staff time and reduces variability.

  2. Long Shelf Life

    • Reduces waste and cost; ensures consistent product performance over time.

    • Convenient for labs with lower test volumes.

  3. Stable & Reproducible

    • Maintains particle morphology and concentration over time, giving consistent, reliable QC results.

    • Useful in validating equipment performance and ensuring quality over longer periods.

Summary

Quality controls are essential in NHS laboratories performing urine microscopy testing to ensure accurate results, meet regulatory standards, and maintain staff competency. Using liquid controls with long shelf life provides practical benefits like reduced prep time, cost-efficiency, and consistent results—making them an ideal choice for busy, high-standard environments like NHS labs.

Rachael Ridley