• Ms. Bhavana Nair
• Dr. S. Mohan

ABSTRACT Background: Labeling errors in inpatient sample collection are a critical and preventable threat to patient safety within hospital settings. These errors occur when the patient’s identity is inaccurately recorded, mismatched, or omitted on laboratory specimens, leading to serious consequences such as misdiagnosis, delayed or incorrect treatment, transfusion mismatches, repeated invasive procedures, and even medico-legal implications. The World Health Organization and Joint Commission International have identified specimen labeling accuracy as a key patient safety indicator. Despite the integration of digital tools and standard protocols, labeling errors remain one of the most common types of pre-analytical laboratory errors, accounting for a significant proportion of total laboratory mistakes. A notable increase in labeling errors during the first half of 2024 at a multispecialty hospital prompted this study aimed at identifying root causes and evaluating targeted interventions. Objective: To assess the incidence and contributing factors of labeling errors and evaluate the effectiveness of structured interventions particularly the Similar Name Alert Protocol (SNAP) and Automated Tube Labeling System (ATLS) implemented to reduce these errors. Methods: A retrospective and prospective observational study was conducted from January to December 2024 in a multispecialty hospital in central Kerala. Labeling error data were collected via incident reporting systems and verified by ward audits. A root cause analysis using the 5 Whys technique was performed, followed by the implementation of targeted interventions in July 2024. Results: A rising trend in labeling errors was observed from January (5 cases) to June (11 cases). Post-intervention data showed a reduction: 10 in July, 8 in August, down to 2 in December. The effectiveness of SNAP and ATLS, along with bedside labeling reinforcement and staff training, was evident. Conclusion: Structured protocols, technological aids, and continuous staff engagement significantly reduced labeling errors. Long-term success depends on sustained monitoring, auditing, and protocol adherence.

Labeling errors, inpatient safety, patient identification, SNAP protocol, automated tube labeling, quality improvement

"Impact of Structured Interventions on Reducing Labeling Errors in Inpatient Sample Collection: A One-Year Quality Improvement Study in a Multispecialty Hospital", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no.g402-g409, August-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2508647.pdf

"Impact of Structured Interventions on Reducing Labeling Errors in Inpatient Sample Collection: A One-Year Quality Improvement Study in a Multispecialty Hospital", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no. ppg402-g409, August-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2508647.pdf