Common sources of error found in a histology laboratory:
- Lack of standardization, leading to variable input
- System complexity; numbers of redundant steps simply serve to increase the opportunity for error
- Human intervention or human fallibility
Table 2 highlights corrective measures and the advantages they bring to the laboratory.
Table 2. Corrective Measures and Corresponding Advantages. | Corrective Measure | Advantages |
| Use of protocols | Seeks to reduce variation. Only works if staff execute consistently and accurately. |
| Use of checklists | Reduces the reliance on memory and needed vigilance, but like protocols, depends on staff using consistently and accurately. |
| Technology solutions | Does not rely on people for execution, only oversight. Greatly increases consistency of performance. |
