Important Concepts in Quality Control: Controls

Safety and Handling of Controls

  • To ensure the safety of those performing patient testing, controls do not contain HIV or the hepatitis B virus.
  • Manufacturers place the same batch of control material into small vials. This allows only a small portion of the control to be handled while the remainder is stored until needed.
  • Storage information for controls is printed on the label. These instructions should be followed carefully in order to prevent contamination or false results.

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