Common Mistakes in Medical Tests

Medical tests are considered the cornerstone in diagnosing diseases and monitoring health conditions, but in some cases, medical testing errors may occur, raising an important question: Can test results be inaccurate?

The answer is yes, and there are several common medical test errors that may affect the result.

In this article, we will help you understand these errors and how to avoid them in collaboration with the experts at Advanced Cell Laboratories (ACL).

What are the common errors in medical tests?

The most important errors include:

• Causes of incorrect test results such as drawing an incorrect sample or sample contamination
• How to avoid blood test errors by following doctor and laboratory instructions
• Common errors in sugar tests due to eating before the test
• Errors in liver and kidney function tests due to insufficient fasting or taking certain medications
• Errors in reading test results due to incorrect interpretation of values

How can these errors affect patients’ health?

• Providing an inaccurate diagnosis
• Prescribing inappropriate treatment
• Delaying the detection of a serious disease
• Confusing the patient and increasing anxiety

For this reason, accuracy in medical tests is vital and should be carefully considered.

Why is obtaining accurate medical test results important?

• Making correct treatment decisions
• Monitoring disease progression accurately
• Avoiding unnecessary repeated tests
• Saving time and money for the patient

The best way to ensure accuracy is to rely on the best medical testing lab in Saudi Arabia such as Advanced Cell Laboratories (ACL).

What are the causes of errors in medical test results?

First: Pre-analytical errors

1. Not fasting or preparing properly before the test
   – Eating food or taking medications before sugar or lipid tests affects the results.
2. Improper timing of sample collection
   – Some hormones (like cortisol) are affected by the time of collection.
3. Exercise before the test
   – May temporarily raise liver enzymes or sugar levels.
4. Stress or psychological tension
   – Raises some indicators like sugar or cortisol.
5. Errors in sample storage or transport
   – Temperature changes or transport delays can spoil some samples.

Second: Analytical errors

6. Using uncalibrated devices or reagents
   – May lead to inaccurate results.
7. Sample contamination in the lab
   – Leads to misleading results, especially in urine or bacterial tests.
8. Mixing samples between patients
   – A serious administrative error leading to results not matching the sample owner.
9. Lack of technician experience or negligence in analysis steps
   – Can cause errors especially in precise tests.

Third: Post-analytical errors

10. Error in recording or printing the result
    – Entering incorrect data in the final report.
11. Poor interpretation by a non-specialist
    – Some values vary by age, gender, and health status.
12. Relying on a single test without correlating with other tests or symptoms
    – May lead to misdiagnosis.

Tips to avoid test errors

• • Follow preparation instructions (fasting, timing, medications).
  • Conduct tests in a trusted and licensed laboratory.
  • Review results with a specialist doctor, not relying solely on the internet.
  • Repeat the test in case of doubt or unexpected results.

How to avoid errors in medical tests

• Follow doctor’s instructions regarding fasting and preparation
• Inform the lab about all medications you are taking
• Choose an accredited lab using latest testing technologies
• Request a repeat test if there is doubt about the results

Tips to ensure accurate test results:

• Schedule the test in the morning
• Avoid intense physical activity before the test
• Stay relaxed before sample collection

Frequently asked questions about medical test errors

Can test results be inaccurate?

Yes, especially if medical instructions are not followed carefully.

What is the difference between a correct and incorrect test?

A correct test gives an accurate reading of the body’s condition, while an error leads to distorted results affecting diagnosis and treatment.

How to ensure lab test accuracy?

Choose the best accredited medical testing lab in Saudi Arabia with a good reputation, such as Advanced Cell Laboratories (ACL).

Does taking medications affect test results?

Yes, therefore all medications you are taking should be reported to the lab.

Don’t leave your health to chance. Avoid medical test errors by choosing an accredited lab and following instructions carefully. With Advanced Cell Laboratories (ACL), get accurate and fast results to make the right decision for your health.

Book your tests now or find the nearest branch and contact us immediately!