What is one purpose of the preanalytical phase in laboratory practice?

The main purpose of the preanalytical phase in laboratory practice is to avoid errors that could affect results. This phase encompasses all the steps involved from the point of patient preparation until the sample arrives in the laboratory for analysis. It includes patient identification, specimen collection, handling, and transportation. Each of these steps is critical, as any mistakes or oversight can compromise the integrity of the sample and consequently lead to inaccurate test results.

By focusing on minimizing errors during this phase, laboratories aim to enhance the reliability of the results, ensuring that healthcare providers can make well-informed decisions based on accurate data. Adequate training in this phase is essential for phlebotomy technicians, as they play a vital role in achieving quality control before the testing begins.

The other choices touch upon significant aspects of laboratory operations, but they do not directly capture the overarching goal of the preanalytical phase. For instance, although ensuring accurate sample storage is important, it falls under the handling of samples and is part of the broader goal of preventing errors. Similarly, preparing patients psychologically or analyzing equipment effectiveness are not specific to the preanalytical phase and do not encompass the main goal of error prevention during this critical time.