3. WORKLOAD RECOMMENDATIONS

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There will be considerable variation among staff members in their speed of analysis and the number of specimens processed, depending on the individual and also their other duties. Moreover the workload is influenced by the degree of automation, complexity of analysis involved and whether or not photographic work is necessary. The number of staff should be sufficient to ensure that no unnecessary delays occur in the processing of samples.

Taking all this into account, an average annual workload for a member of staff undertaking cytogenetic analysis, the following workload is expected (Ancillary and administrative staff are additional to the laboratory staff and are not included in this workload):

• 250-350 lymphocyte samples; or
• 250-350 prenatal samples; or
• 250-350 solid tissues; or
• 150-250 haematological samples; or
• 100-200 solid tumour samples; or
• 400-500 Metaphase/Interphase FISH tests; or
• 150-220 specialised FISH tests e.g. multiple sub-telomere

Obviously the workload will vary depending on the complexity and weighting of the different tissues within the laboratory e.g. in laboratories where a more complex or technically difficult oncology or FISH specimens predominate a reduced workload is appropriate.

Sufficient time should be allocated to developmental work and continuous professional education (CPE/ CPD) of staff.

Once a technique has been established, to maintain expertise, a laboratory should process a minimum of 100 samples per year in a given cytogenetic field (prenatal, postnatal, acquired, or oncology). Otherwise it is recommended that samples be directed to another laboratory. To maintain staff competence a laboratory is recommended to process no less than 500 samples annually (including all sample types).

At least two diagnostic work supervisors, in addition to the Director of laboratory, are necessary in a diagnostic service laboratory in order to ensure adequate checking of results, continuity of service during absences or vacations and to cope with variation in workload.

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Last changed: 2008-02-04