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Workstations designed to manipulate laboratory automation equipment in real time by retrieving, processing and storing digital data using minimal operator intervention. These workstations may operate all or only some of the equipment used in a complete laboratory process. They may perform sample preparation in pre-analytical modules (e.g., sample labeling, sorting, decapping); sample transport to analytical modules (e.g., hematology, molecular assay, clinical chemistry, and immunology analyzers); perform a particular type of procedure (e.g., nucleic acid processes); and handle post-analytical storage of samples. The individual units may be standard IVD equipment (e.g., centrifuges, sorters, pipetters, washers, refrigerators, analyzers) or, more frequently, standard manufacturer or custom designed modules according to the healthcare facility needs. Workstations controlling laboratory automation may interact with clinical laboratory and/or hospital information systems. The workstations are intended to improve the efficiency of the process, decrease turnaround time of samples, and reduce errors in the process.
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