Root Cause Analysis in the Histology Laboratory

Recorded On: 09/14/2021

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Root cause analysis (RCA) is a method of problem solving used for identifying the root causes of non-conformance issues in the laboratory. Root cause is the fundamental, underlying reason for a problem. This workshop will help the attendee identify the cause of a problem, solve it, and prevent it from occurring again. This saves your laboratory time, money, and resources. A didactic power point will describe and define Root Cause and Corrective Action and Preventive Action (CAPA). Hands-on practice for the laboratory will discuss how to address using a robust root cause analysis process to include 5 Whys, FMEA and Fishbone technique among a few tools. Lastly, the audience will leave with tools to use in their own laboratories. 

** This is a free member educational resource and does not qualify for CEUs **

Kathleen Dwyer-Bench, HT(ASCP)

Kathy Dwyer is an accomplished histotechnology leader with extensive expertise in quality management and laboratory operations. As the Director of Quality Assessment at Quest Diagnostics, she oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive quality systems designed to ensure precision, compliance, and continual improvement across a vast network of diagnostic laboratories.  With a career rooted in clinical excellence, Kathy has become a trusted authority in histopathology quality assurance. She has leveraged her deep understanding of regulatory standards and process optimization to shape robust quality frameworks that elevate patient safety and laboratory performance.

A recognized educator and thought leader, Kathy has shared her insights nationally—most notably co-presenting a webinar, “Preparing a Quality Management Plan for the Histopathology Laboratory,” which guided histology professionals through designing and maintaining effective quality systems in an increasingly regulated healthcare landscape

Debra Siena, HT(ASCP),QIHC

Technical Manager

Statlab Medical Products

Debbie Siena has served over 25 years of experience in the field of histotechnology.  She was the Technical Support Manager for StatLab Medical Products since September, 2010. Prior to StatLab, Debbie was with Ventana Medical Systems, Inc. for seven years as a Technical Marketing Representative, Senior Technical Marketing Specialist, Area Support Manager and Key Account Technical Specialist with the Corporate and Major Account Team. While at Ventana, Debbie was a multiple award winner, including Technical Specialist of the Year, Technical Specialist of the Quarter, and President’s Club member. Prior to Ventana, Debbie was the Manager of the Anatomic Pathology Department at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, Texas for seven years and served as Supervisor of Histology at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. While at Children’s Medical Center, Debbie was responsible for development of the IHC and ISH procedures and techniques. Debbie is very active in continuing education and has presented numerous educational workshops at the state and national level as well as multiple teleconferences for NSH. 

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Root Cause Analysis in the Histology Laboratory
Open to view video.
Open to view video. Learning Objectives: 1) In this WS the attendees will understand how to perform a root cause analysis for a non-conformance in the histology laboratory as required by CAP. 2) Usable Quality tools will be used to perform a proper root cause analysis. 3) Upon completion of a comprehensive root cause analysis a correct action and preventive action. “** This is a free member educational resource and does not qualify for CEUs **