The use of Google Sheets for Specimen Tracking, Pathologists’ Requisitions, Quality Control and Data Retrieving for Statistics, Search and Research in Anatomical Pathology Laboratories in the Absence of Barcoding and/or Anatomical Pathology Laboratory Information System

Abstract

Background: Many Anatomical Pathology laboratories do not have a barcoding system or an anatomical pathology laboratory information system that allow for better workflow by tracking of specimens and orders, quality control documentation, statistics calculation, search and data retrieval for research purposes. Aim: This paper will show how Google sheet can be used as an alternative using the checkboxes, the electronic edit history and other features. Materials and Methods: Google accounts were created then Google sheets were designed with specific details and the daily quality log was designed to show compliances to national and international standards. Results: Descriptive templates allowed for tracking of specimens and pathologists’ requisitions, quality control documentation, statistics calculation, search and data retrieval for research purposes. Conclusion: Google sheet can be used in the absence of barcoding systems or an anatomical pathology laboratory information system for tracking, documentation, search, research and monitoring of all activities by the supervisor as required by some accreditation body.