Quality Control Procedures, Documentation and Interpretation: Basic Terms

Standard Deviation

  • In the illustration, you'll note that the curve is divided into eight equal sections.
  • Each of these sections is one standard deviation or SD. In the middle of these eight sections is a line that represents the mean.
  • The illustrated Gaussian curve shows a normal distribution, which means that most of the data are close to the mean with very few of the data points being at one extreme or the other.

Earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.® credits for your state clinical laboratory personnel license. Visit LabCE.com for laboratory continuing education.

Quality Control course details »

Learn more about laboratory continuing education for ASCP, AMT, NCA, and state renewal and recertification requirements »

Get information on laboratory safety and compliance courses for clinical and medical laboratories »