Robotics in the hematology laboratory. An evaluation of the productivity of the Sysmex HS-330

Am J Clin Pathol. 1995 Feb;103(2):154-8. doi: 10.1093/ajcp/103.2.154.

Abstract

The productivity of a robotic hematology system (Sysmex HS-330) was compared with that of existing automated, semi-automated, and manual systems (Coulter Counter-Model STKS; Sysmex R-1000 reticulocyte counter. Geometric Data Miniprep slide maker, respectively) in the clinical hematology laboratory of a large hospital. On average, for a batch of 50 samples, the HS-330 performed a blood count with a 5-part differential, a reticulocyte count, and prepare a blood smear 23 minutes faster than could trained technologists using existing equipment. An estimated 1.8 medical technologists could be assigned to other tasks; however, because of the equipment's high cost, in a laboratory processing 1,000 samples per day, 4.6 years would be needed before any actual cost savings were experienced.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Efficiency
  • Equipment and Supplies, Hospital
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Hematologic Tests / instrumentation*
  • Humans
  • Laboratories*
  • Robotics*
  • Software
  • Specimen Handling