8 Summary

In this module you have learned how a quality management system underpins the operational efficiency of a laboratory, and the internal and external checks that guarantee AMR data quality and integrity. You have also been introduced to the idea of accreditation for laboratories as a way of ensuring that quality standards are maintained.

You should now be able to:

• explain the importance of data integrity and quality in laboratory practice and in the AMR surveillance context
• outline quality assurance measures in the context of AMR surveillance
• describe the key components of laboratory practice that underpin the quality testing and analysis of antibiotic resistance data
• recognise that your role is an integral part of the AMR surveillance process and that you are responsible for managing quality standards in the workplace
• reflect on the different components of a quality management system and how they are applied in your workplace, and what improvements could be made to ensure that your workplace is obtaining, recording and reporting good quality data.

Now that you have completed this module, consider the following questions:

• What is the single most important lesson that you have taken away from this module?
• How relevant is it to your work?
• Can you suggest ways in which this new knowledge can benefit your practice?

When you have reflected on these, go to your reflective blog [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]   and note down your thoughts.