Reliability of Parameters of Complete Blood Count With Different Storage Conditions.

INTRODUCTION: The complete blood count (CBC) is a frequently performed laboratory test today. This study evaluated the effects of temperature and sample storage time on parameters of CBC which could produce misleading results of clinical significance. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, CBC was checked in 102 randomly selected healthy individuals and baseline measurements were analyzed using the Sysmex XS 500i fully automated hematology analyzer. CBC was done on samples up to 48 hr of storage at temperatures of 4 ± 2°C, 23 ± 2°C, and 31 ± 2°C. Values were checked at time intervals of 6, 24, and 48 hr. RESULTS: Among CBC parameters, white blood cell, red blood cell, hemoglobin, mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), neutrophils and lymphocytes were stable at all three temperatures up to 48 hr. Monocytes, eosinophils, MCH concentration, hematocrit (Htc), and red cell distribution width-coefficient of variation showed statistically significant changes at 23 ± 2°C and 31 ± 2°C. A significant decline in platelet count (PLT) and increment in mean platelet volume and basophil count were seen at all study temperatures up to 48 hr. CONCLUSION: This study shows that most parameters of the CBC are unaffected with the studied storage temperature up to 48 hr except for the PLT which should be performed within 6 hr of the post-collection time. To avoid changes in a few parameters such as Htc, it is best to store the sample at 4 ± 2°C if any delay is anticipated.

Occupational health issues in small-scale industries in Sri Lanka: An underreported burden.

BACKGROUND: Work-related diseases and occupational accidents affect a significant number of workers globally. The majority of these diseases and accidents are reported from developing countries; and a large percentage of the workforce in developing countries is estimated to be employed in small-scale industries. Sri Lanka is no exception. These workers are exposed to occupational hazards and are at a great risk of developing work- related diseases and injuries. OBJECTIVE: To identify occupational health issues faced by small-scale industry workers in Sri Lanka. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted among workers in four selected small-scale industry categories in two districts of Sri Lanka. A small-scale industry was defined as a work setting with less than 20 workers. Cluster sampling using probability proportionate to size of workers was used. Eighty clusters with a cluster size of eight from each district were selected. Data was collected using a pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire. RESULTS: Our study surveyed 198 industries. Headache (2.2%, 95% CI 1.5-3.1) and eye problems (2.1%, 95% CI 1.4-2.9) were the commonest general health issues detected. Back pain (4.8%, 95% CI 3.8-6.1) was the most prevalent work-related musculoskeletal pain reported. Knee pain was the second highest (4.4%, 95% CI 3.4-5.6). Most of the work-related musculoskeletal pain was either of short duration or long lasting. CONCLUSIONS: Work-related musculoskeletal pain was much more common than the general health issues reported. Health promotional programs at workplaces focusing ergonomics will benefit the workers at small-scale industries inSri Lanka.