Work morale assessment and development for the clinical laboratory manager.

Work morale has been a longstanding issue for managers in general, but it is assuming critical proportions for clinical laboratory managers today. Four key variables that determine work morale have been isolated: the job itself, the work group, management practices, and economic rewards. Regular assessment and development of these key morale variables via time-tested, effective, and easy-to-use techniques will help clinical laboratory managers to attract and retain competent personnel, to enhance the prospects of organizational profitability, to sustain high-quality patient care, and to earn the respect and loyalty of other health-care employees. This article discusses the components of the four key areas of morale and offers "prescriptions" to improve morale in these important areas. A survey to assess morale is also provided.

Study of an analytical method for hexavalent chromium.

The diphenylcarbazide colorimetric method was evaluated by analyzing spiked PVC filters prepared by an AIHA-accredited consultant laboratory for chromium (VI). All seven participating laboratories received the samples and performed the analyses at the same time. Three laboratories simultaneously tested three alternative analytical procedures. Reduced amounts of chromium (VI) were found by both the consultant and participating laboratories when using the test procedure and one of the alternative methods. Two of the alternative analytical methods, both of which involve an alkaline extraction procedure, provided higher recoveries and more precise values for the test filters. It appears that the alkaline extraction procedure may be more appropriate for occupational health samples taken in steel industry environments which may include several interferents. Suggestions are made for further studies to determine the most appropriate analytical method.