Nursing Roles in Ensuring the Quality and Reliability of Laboratory Testing: A Systematic Review of Practices and Outcomes

Abstract

Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory testing is fundamental to patient safety and evidence-based clinical decision-making. This systematic review examines the critical role of nurses in enhancing laboratory quality across the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of diagnostic testing. A total of ten studies (five from Saudi Arabia and five international) published between 2018 and 2024 were analyzed using PRISMA methodology. Findings revealed that nursing interventions significantly reduce laboratory errors, accelerate diagnostic turnaround times, and improve overall clinical outcomes. In the pre-analytical phase, nurse-led standardization of specimen collection and labeling protocols decreased sample rejection rates by up to 45%. In the analytical phase, nurses managing point-of-care testing (POCT) demonstrated improved diagnostic accuracy and rapid treatment initiation. Post-analytical nursing roles, including critical value reporting and interdisciplinary communication, were associated with reduced morbidity and enhanced patient outcomes. Importantly, these contributions align with the strategic objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 by advancing healthcare quality, digital transformation, and accreditation readiness. The review concludes that empowering nurses through training, policy integration, and digital tools is essential for sustaining laboratory performance and achieving national healthcare transformation goals.