Terms of Reference for the CDHB POCT Committee

THE CDHB POINT- OF- CARE TESTING COMMITTEE

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Membership:

Chair:

Director of Nursing

Secretary:

Point of Care Coordinator

Membership:

Nurse Managers

Quality Managers

Medical representation

Registered Nurse

Infection Control

Supply

Information Services

Laboratory Pathologist(s)

Frequency of meetings: Bi-monthly for the first six months; quarterly thereafter.

Objectives

To advance knowledge about POCT practices in the Canterbury District Health Board

To improve patient care by applying Quality Assurance and Total Quality Management principles in utilisation of the POCT programs

To promote communication and cooperation between professional groups directly and indirectly involved in the POCT systems and programs

To assist in implementing the protocol for new POCT requests and procedures

Goals

This committee shall:

Ensure that the responsibilities and authorities necessary for quality management of POCT are defined and communicated within the CDHB organisation.
Assist the POCT Coordinator in evaluating and selecting POCT equipment and systems, using defined health care and patient outcomes consistent with the CDHB POCT Policy, the International Standard ISO 15189 and the associated POCT Standard, ISO 22870.
Evaluate end-user POCT proposals for the purchase and installation of POCT equipment.
Designate staff responsible for POCT in the various patient care areas.
Ensure that appropriate systems are in place for:

monitoring the training, certification and re-certification of POCT system operators

maintenance of machines and consumable supplies and reagents

appropriate quality assurance and record keeping

security from unauthorised or inappropriate use of POCT devices.

Provide input for the identification of POCT improvement opportunities including equipment upgrades and replacements, connectivity options, documentation requirements.
Advise changes to POCT policies, processes and procedures when appropriate.
Participate in the review of External Quality Assessments (Quality Management Program - Laboratory Services - RCPA and College of American Pathologists - CAP).