Internal audit in a microbiology laboratory.

AIM To set up a programme of internal laboratory audit in a medical microbiology laboratory. METHODS A model of laboratory based process audit is described. Laboratory activities were examined in turn by specimen type. Standards were set using laboratory standard operating procedures; practice was observed using a purpose designed questionnaire and the data were analysed by computer; performance was assessed at laboratory audit meetings; and the audit circle was closed by re-auditing topics after an interval. RESULTS Improvements in performance scores (objective measures) and in staff morale (subjective impression) were observed. CONCLUSIONS This model of process audit could be applied, with amendments to take local practice into account, in any microbiology laboratory.