Laboratory Management and Quality Control Practice of SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection

Xiao, Shiwei; Yue, Junqiu; Zhang, Tianming; Wang, Mingwei; Jin, Su; Zhang, Junfei; Zhang, Sheng; Xu, Pengfei; Wu, De; Hu, Jianhua; Guo, Fang

OBJECTIVE: A positive result of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection provides critical laboratory evidence for clinical confirmed diagnosis, pandemic status evaluation, a pandemic prevention plan, treatment of infected people with symptoms, and protection of uninfected people. This study aims to provide a practical reference for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid–related research and detection. METHODS: Our laboratory has established policies combining personnel management and quality control practices for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection during the pandemic. RESULTS: In this article, we describe cross-department personnel management and key points of personal protection and quality control in the testing process. We also report on the differences in detection and the compatibility between different brand kits. CONCLUSION: It is critical to maintain a standard and accurate laboratory operation for nucleic acid testing.