Daily/Regular User Maintenance Checklist

1. Before Use

 Inspect the microscope for dust, oil, or damage.

 Check power supply and lamp function (if using a light microscope).

 Ensure lenses and objectives are clean. Use only lens paper and proper cleaning solution.

2. During Use

 Handle with care: Always use both hands—one under the base, the other on the arm.

 Start with low magnification before moving to higher objectives.

 Use immersion oil only with oil-immersion objectives (typically 100x), and clean
immediately afterward.

 Do not force knobs—adjust coarse and fine focus gently.

3. After Use

 Lower the stage and return the lowest objective into position.

 Remove the slide and clean the stage.

 Clean the objective lenses using lens paper with a drop of lens cleaner.

 Turn off the light source and unplug the microscope.

 Cover the microscope with a dust cover.

🧼 Cleaning and Handling Tips

 Lens cleaning:

o Use lens paper only—never tissue or cloth.

o Clean in a circular motion starting from the center outward.

o Use a blower brush to remove dust before wiping.

 Body cleaning:

o Wipe with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth (avoid solvents).

o Do not let liquids enter the optical or mechanical parts.

 Stage and slide holders:

o Remove residues or oil after each use.

o Clean gently with isopropyl alcohol if sticky.

Periodic User Maintenance (Weekly/Monthly)

  Check and clean light source and condenser.

 Inspect mechanical stage for smooth movement and clean gears if accessible.

 Test focus knobs for proper tension.

 Check power cord and plug for signs of wear.

 Inspect objectives and eyepieces for fungus, haze, or oil residues.

⚠️Things to Avoid

 Do not touch lenses with fingers.

 Avoid storing in humid environments—can cause fungal growth.

 Never use water or harsh chemicals for cleaning.

 Don’t disassemble optical components unless trained.

🧊 Storage Tips

 Keep in a dry, dust-free environment.

 Use a silica gel pack or dehumidifier cabinet in humid areas.

 Always cover with a dust cover.

 Store with objectives lowered and the stage down.

🧪 Special Notes for Different Microscope Types

For Compound Microscopes:

 Clean immersion oil after each use.

 Check alignment of the condenser and diaphragm.

For Fluorescence Microscopes:

 Avoid prolonged exposure of filters and light sources.

 Store filters in the dark when not in use.

For Phase-contrast or DIC Microscopes:

 Keep prisms and annuli clean and aligned.

 Avoid bumping the optical paths.

📋 Documentation

 Keep a maintenance log.

  Note any performance issues, unusual noises, or mechanical problems.

 Report faults to technical service when needed.

1. Daily Maintenance (Before and After Use)

Task Description

✅ Warm-Up Check Allow the machine to reach optimal temperature before testing.

✅ Clean Sample and Reagent

Rinse with distilled water or recommended cleaning solution.
Probes

Ensure there are no bubbles in the flow system (can affect

✅ Check for Air Bubbles
reading accuracy).

✅ Blank and Calibration Perform blank run and check calibration using control serum.

✅ Clean Cuvette/Flow Cell Use system wash or distilled water to clean the optical path.

Clean with soft cloth and ethanol (do not use water near
✅ Wipe Exterior Surface
electronics).

✅ Turn Off and Cover Turn off system and cover with dust cover when not in use.

🔹 2. Weekly Maintenance

Task Description

✅ Deep Cleaning of Flow Run a cleaning solution (e.g., 0.5% hypochlorite or manufacturer-
System recommended reagent).

✅ Check Photometer Window Inspect for smudges or deposits and clean gently with lens tissue.

✅ Inspect Tubing and

Look for clogs, leaks, or discoloration. Replace if needed.
Connections

✅ Clean Keyboard and

Use soft, damp cloth or recommended wipes.
Touchscreen

🔹 3. Monthly Maintenance

Task Description

✅ Check Lamp Intensity (if applicable) Compare to baseline or manufacturer's limits. Replace if dim.

✅ Clean Internal Fans or Vents Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust from air inlets.
Task Description

✅ Check Reagent Storage Inspect expiration dates and proper sealing of reagent bottles.

Use quality control sera for high and low levels to assess
✅ Run Full QC Test
accuracy.

🔹 4. General Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do ❌ Don’t

Use only distilled or deionized water Don’t use tap water—it leaves deposits

Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning Don’t use harsh chemicals or bleach unless

solutions specified

Store reagents according to label instructions Don’t leave reagents uncapped or exposed to light

Don’t ignore error messages—troubleshoot or

Keep logs of maintenance, calibration, and errors
report

General Practices (For All Equipment)

 Daily cleaning of surfaces after use.

 Label and cover equipment after use.

 Turn off and unplug devices not in continuous use.

 Avoid overloading equipment beyond specified capacity.

 Document usage and issues in a logbook.

🔬 2. Spectrophotometer

 Clean cuvettes immediately after use.

 Wipe sample holder and optical path with lens tissue.

 Calibrate (blank) the device before each session.

 Avoid spilling reagents inside the compartment.

 Turn off lamp when not in use to extend life.

🧊 3. Refrigerator/Freezer (-20°C/-80°C)
  Check and record temperature daily.

 Ensure doors seal properly and close fully.

 Defrost (manually) if frost builds up in manual models.

 Organize samples to prevent long open times.

 Clean shelves and drawers regularly.

🌀 4. Centrifuge

 Balance tubes properly before spinning.

 Clean the rotor and chamber after spills.

 Inspect rotor and buckets for corrosion or damage.

 Wipe down exterior after use.

 Leave the lid open to dry (unless specified otherwise).

5. Water Bath

 Change water weekly or as recommended.

 Add biocide to prevent microbial growth.

 Clean walls and base to remove deposits.

 Cover with lid when not in use to retain heat and prevent contamination.

6. pH Meter

 Rinse the electrode with distilled water after each use.

 Store electrode in appropriate storage solution.

 Calibrate daily using standard buffers (pH 4, 7, and 10).

 Avoid wiping the electrode; blot dry with lint-free tissue.

 Check for bubble in the electrode junction.

💧 7. Micropipettes

 Wipe exterior with ethanol after use.

 Do not lay flat with a loaded tip—always store upright.

 Check accuracy periodically with distilled water.

 Change seals and lubricate (user-level only if trained).

  Use correct tips and pipetting technique.

🧼 8. Glassware and Plasticware

 Rinse immediately after use to avoid residue hardening.

 Use detergent and brush for stubborn stains.

 Autoclave or sterilize when needed.

 Inspect for chips or cracks before reuse.

💻 9. Lab Software & Documentation

 Back up electronic data regularly.

 Log maintenance, calibration, and errors in a logbook or software.

 Update software and firmware as instructed.

⚠️10. Waste Disposal

 Dispose of biological and chemical waste according to protocols.

 Label all waste containers clearly.

 Decontaminate reusable containers before reuse

Steps to Perform Quality Control in Semi-Auto Biochemistry Analyzer

🔹 1. Prepare the Quality Control Material

 Use commercially available control sera (normal and abnormal/high levels).

 Bring to room temperature before use (usually 15–30 minutes).

 Mix gently—do not shake vigorously (avoid foaming).

 Check expiry date and lot number.

🔹 2. Select the Appropriate QC Level

 Many kits come with at least two levels:

o Level 1 (Normal) — simulates normal patient values.

o Level 2 (High/Abnormal) — simulates pathological values.

🔹 3. Perform the QC Test Like a Patient Sample

 Set up the analyzer for the test (e.g., glucose, urea, ALT).
  Use the same reagent and follow the same protocol as with patient samples.

 Pipette the QC sample into the cuvette, and insert into the analyzer.

 Record the absorbance or result as shown.

🔹 4. Compare with Manufacturer's Control Range

 The QC material will come with expected value ranges for each test.

 Compare your result to this range.

 If results are within range → Test is Valid.

 If results are outside range → Test is Invalid; take corrective action.

🔹 5. Record and Review

 Record values in a QC logbook or software.

 Use Levey-Jennings charts for visual monitoring of trends over time.

 Look for patterns like drift, shift, or random errors.

⚠️If QC Fails (Out of Range Results):

Action Description

🔄 Repeat QC Re-run using fresh pipette tips, cuvettes, and freshly mixed QC sample.

🧪 Check Reagents Ensure reagents are not expired or contaminated.

🔧 Check Analyzer Clean cuvette holder, optics, or calibrate the system.

📞 Contact Support If issue persists after troubleshooting.

📝 Tips for Good QC Practice

 Run QC daily, or before every batch of patient tests.

 Use controls from the same lot for consistency.

 Maintain a QC log for auditing and accreditation.

 Include QC in external quality assurance (EQA) programs if possible.

What is a Levey-Jennings Chart?

A Levey-Jennings chart plots control values (e.g., glucose QC results) on a graph day by day, showing
how far they deviate from the mean (target value). This helps detect errors, trends, or shifts in your
analyzer's performance.

📈 Structure of the Chart:

 X-axis (horizontal): Time (days, runs, or batch numbers).

 Y-axis (vertical): Test result value.

 A horizontal line is drawn for:

o Mean (Target Value) — central line.

o +1 SD, +2 SD, +3 SD and −1 SD, −2 SD, −3 SD — standard deviation limits.

Here’s a simple visualization:

arduino

CopyEdit

+3 SD ————

+2 SD ————

+1 SD ————

Mean → MEAN ————

-1 SD ————

-2 SD ————

-3 SD ————

Days →

You plot your daily QC results on this graph to see how close they are to the mean.

🛑 Why It’s Important:

 Detects random errors (single points far from mean).

 Detects systematic errors (trending up/down or sudden shifts).

 Helps ensure patient results are accurate before reporting.

✅ Rules Commonly Used:

These are called Westgard Rules, applied on the Levey-Jennings chart:

Rule What it means Possible issue

1_2s One value > ±2 SD Warning

1_3s One value > ±3 SD Reject run

2_2s Two consecutive values > ±2 SD Systematic error

R_4s One result +2 SD, next −2 SD Random error

4_1s Four consecutive values > ±1 SD (same side) Shift/trend

Daily Maintenance

A. Cleaning & Sanitization

1. Probe/Sensor Care:

o Wipe electrodes with lint-free cloth soaked in mild detergent or manufacturer-

recommended cleaner (e.g., 10% bleach solution for ISE probes).

o Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch sensitive surfaces.

2. Sample Path Flush:

o Run system wash cycles with deionized water or saline to prevent protein buildup.

o For blood analyzers: Clean sample probes to avoid clot formation.

B. Calibration

 Perform at least 2-point calibration daily (using manufacturer-provided calibrators).

 Record calibration results and check for drift (>5% deviation may indicate issues).

C. Fluid Level Checks

 Refill/replace:

o Electrolyte reference solution (if using ISE).

o Waste containers (avoid overflow).

o Buffers and reagents (ensure no crystallization at nozzle tips).

2. Weekly/Monthly Maintenance

A. Electrode Maintenance

 ISE (Ion-Selective Electrode) Machines:

o Soak probes in protein-removing solution (e.g., pepsin/HCl) if clogged.

 o Polish solid-state electrodes (e.g., K⁺/Na⁺) with fine alumina slurry (if manufacturer
recommends).

 Replace membranes: For gas-sensing electrodes (e.g., pCO₂/pO₂ in blood gas analyzers).

B. Tubing & Pumps

 Inspect for:

o Cracks/leaks in tubing.

o Pump pressure consistency (irregular flow = air bubbles or clog).

 Replace per schedule (e.g., every 3–6 months).

C. Performance Verification

 Run quality control (QC) materials (normal/abnormal ranges) weekly.

 Compare results to peer labs (if part of an interlaboratory program).

3. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem Possible Cause User Action

Drifting Results Contaminated probes, expired reagents. Recalibrate, clean

Error: "Low Flow" Clogged tubing, air bubbles. Prime system, flus

High Background Noise Dirty optics/electrodes, electrical interference. Clean sensors, relo

Sample Clotting Improper anticoagulant (e.g., heparinized tubes not used). Ensure correct sam

4. Reagent & Consumable Management

 Storage:

o Keep reagents refrigerated if required (e.g., enzyme-linked assays).

o Avoid exposure to light (e.g., liquid stable CO₂ buffers).

 Expiration Dates:

o Label reagents with opening date (e.g., 30-day stability after opening).

o Discard if turbidity/particles appear.

5. Safety & Compliance

  Biohazard Handling:

o Decontaminate spills with 1:10 bleach solution.

o Use PPE (gloves, lab coats) during maintenance.

 Documentation:

o Log all maintenance/QC actions per CLIA/CAP guidelines.

6. Manufacturer-Specific Tips

 Roche Cobas®: Use ProCell M for daily cleaning.

 Siemens RAPIDLab®: Monthly system flushes with Rinse Solution B.

 Abbott i-STAT®: Replace cartridges strictly per lot expiration.

7. When to Call Service

 Persistent calibration failures.

 Mechanical errors (e.g., pump failure, electrode cracks).

 Unexplained outliers in QC (>3 SD shifts).

8. Preventive Maintenance Schedule

Task Frequency

Probe cleaning Daily

Calibration Daily

QC runs Weekly

Tubing inspection Monthly

Electrode polishing Quarterly

9. Key Takeaways

 Consistency is critical: Small lapses in maintenance can lead to major result inaccuracies.

 Track trends: Use QC logs to spot gradual performance declines.

 Train staff: Ensure all users follow SOPs to avoid mishandling.

. Daily Maintenance Tasks

A. Pre-Run Preparation
☐ Power On & System Check:

 Verify stable power supply; ensure no error messages on startup.

 Allow 15–30 minutes for warm-up (if required).

☐ Cleaning:

 Wipe external surfaces with 70% ethanol or manufacturer-approved disinfectant.

 Clean sample probes with lint-free cloth + 0.5% bleach solution (avoid scratching).

☐ Fluid Management:

 Check levels of:

o Internal rinse/wash solution (top up if low).

o Waste container (empty if ≥75% full).

 Prime tubing to remove air bubbles.

B. Calibration
☐ Run 2-point calibration using fresh calibrators (low/high).

 Record values; flag if deviation exceeds ±5% from expected.

C. Quality Control (QC)

☐ Analyze at least two QC levels (normal/abnormal).

 Accept if within ±2 SD of mean. If not, troubleshoot before patient testing.

2. Weekly Maintenance Tasks

☐ Deep Cleaning:

 Soak electrodes in protease solution (e.g., pepsin/HCl) for 15 mins (if ISE-based).

 Flush fluid paths with deionized water + 10% vinegar (to dissolve salt deposits).

☐ Inspect Consumables:

 Replace cracked/worn tubing.

 Check electrode membranes (replace if peeling or discolored).

☐ Performance Verification:

 Run linearity testing (e.g., 5-level analyte verification).

3. Monthly Maintenance Tasks

☐ Preventive Parts Replacement:

 Replace peristaltic pump tubing (prevents leaks).

 Install new air filters (if applicable).

☐ Sensor Maintenance:

 Polish solid-state electrodes (Na⁺/K⁺) with 0.05µm alumina slurry (rinse thoroughly after).

 Rehydrate reference electrodes in storage solution overnight.

☐ Software Updates:

 Backup patient data; install firmware updates (if approved by lab manager).

4. Quarterly Tasks

☐ Full System Flush:

 Use manufacturer’s descaling solution (e.g., for calcium/lime buildup).

☐ Optics Inspection:

 Clean photometer lenses with alcohol-soaked swabs (for photometric analyzers).

5. Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Issue Immediate Action

Calibration failure Check reagent expiration → Clean probes → Repeat.

Clogged probe Soak in warm enzymatic cleaner; use fine wire (if approved).

Erratic results Verify QC → Check for bubbles in sample line.

"Low Flow" error Inspect tubing for kinks/leaks; prime pump.

6. Safety & Documentation

☐ Biohazard Protocol:

 Decontaminate spills with 1:10 bleach; wear PPE (gloves, goggles).

☐ Record Keeping:

 Log all maintenance, QC, and calibrations in Lab Information System (LIS).
Brand-Specific Notes

 Roche Cobas®: Use CellClean monthly for electrode preservation.

 Siemens RAPIDLab®: Replace ISE modules every 6 months.

 Abbott i-STAT®: Store cartridges at 2–8°C; discard if frozen.

Template for Maintenance Log

Date Task Performed By Result

[Date] Daily QC [Initials] Passed (±1 SD)

Key Recommendations

1. Train Staff: Ensure all users can identify/report early warning signs (e.g., drift, slow
response).

2. Stock Spares: Keep spare electrodes, tubing, and calibrators to minimize downtime.

3. Service Contracts: Schedule annual professional maintenance for optical/mechanical parts.