Abstract
Committee Membership
Foreword
1 Scope
2 Introduction
3 Definitions
4 PT: a Tool for Improvement in Laboratory Testing
  4.1 Selection of PT Programs
  4.2 Sample Handling Procedures
  4.3 Treatment of Unsatisfactory Scores
5 Monitoring PT Performance
  5.1 Procedures for Quantitative Results
  5.2 Monitoring Qualitative Results
  5.3 Evaluating Method Performance Using Summary
      Statistics
6 Investigating an Unacceptable PT Result
  6.1 Gathering and Reviewing Data
  6.2 Classifying the Problem
  6.3 Root Cause
  6.4 Impact Investigation and Remedial Action
  6.5 Corrective Actions
  6.6 Documentation
  6.7 Assessment of Pre- and Postexamination Phases of
      Laboratory Testing
7 Proficiency Testing as an Education Tool
  7.1 Postevent Information Sheets
  7.2 Commentaries
  7.3 Educational or Ungraded Samples
  7.4 Participant Meetings
8 Implementing the Recommendations
  8.1 Laboratory Responsibilities
  8.2 Proficiency Testing Program Provider Responsibilities
  8.3 Oversight Body Responsibilities
References
Appendix A. Example of Long-term Monitoring of Quantitative
            Analytes
Appendix B1. Sample Form for Discordant Proficiency Testing
             Findings in Transfusion Medicine
Appendix B2. Sample Form for Discordant Proficiency Testing
             Findings in Bacteriology
Appendix B3. Sample Form for Discordant Proficiency Testing
             Findings in Clinical Chemistry
Appendix C. Sample Form for Documenting Unacceptable PT
            Investigations
Summary of Comments and Working Group Responses
Summary of Delegate Comments and Working Group Responses
The Quality System Approach
Related CLSI/NCCLS Publications