Harmonization of critical values across the GTA hospitals
Critical values aid in the interpretation of patient test results.
Harmonization of critical values used by hospitals and their associated clinical laboratories across the GTA is essential to ensure consistency in the definition and identification of 'critical state' patients.
To assess the feasibility for harmonization of critical values across GTA, we are surveying Laboratory Medicine departments of hospitals in areas of:
- Genetics
- Chemistry
- Hematology
- Pathology
Latest guidelines from the Harmonization of critical values working group
View an update from the project team
Other available guidelines
GP47 Management of Critical- and Significant-Risk Results, 1st Edition
This guideline provides current best practice recommendations for developing and implementing a policy and procedures for the identification, reporting, and management of critical- and significant-risk laboratory results.
It emphasises management responsibilities such as development of the policy, the process, procedures, job descriptions, and monitoring systems that ensure effective reporting and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Relevant publications for further information
Establishing, harmonizing and analyzing critical values in a large academic health center. Hashim IA, et al. Clin Chem Lab Med 2014;52(8):1129-35. doi: 10.1515/cclm-2014-0029. PMID: 24622791.
Critical risk results – an update on international initiatives. Lam Q, et al. eJIFCC. 2016;27(1):66-76. PMID: 27683507.
Laboratory critical values policies and procedures: a College of American Pathologists Q-Probes Study in 623 institutions. Howanitz PJ, et al. Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2002;126(6):663-9. doi: 10.1043/0003-9985(2002)126<0663:LCVPAP>2.0.CO;2. PMID: 12033953.
Harmonization of critical result management in Laboratory Medicine. Campbell CA, et al. Clin Chim Acta. 2014;432:135-47. doi: 10.1016/j.cca.2013.11.004. PMID: 24246790.
