Creating a Molecular Atmosphere: Phase 2

We pondered the set-up of the molecular section within the Microbiology department during the process of deciding on which instruments to purchase. As with the implementation of any new assay, we had to look at specific facility requirements, personnel requirements, and workflow issues. However, more details than usual were involved with the creation of this new molecular atmosphere; bringing in molecular assays was not as simple as other implementations had been. I was completely out of my comfort zone and had no idea where to begin. As I started the site visits, I began to understand the complexity of building a molecular atmosphere; these visits gave me a first-hand look at what I needed to create. It was scary and exciting—it became evident that I would need lots of time for this project. While visiting the various facilities, I took detailed notes and asked lots of questions encompassing the general topic of how to create a molecular atmosphere and specific topics related to the assays themselves. The technologists appreciated my questions, understanding that this type of testing was new to many, and were extremely helpful in offering their knowledge in the field. I returned with the information I had learned and started thinking about the guidelines that we would need to implement at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center. Our system laboratory was certified by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and we followed guidelines proposed by the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). At the time, these … [↵][1]* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: stephanie.e.wallace{at}osfhealthcare.org [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1