Accuracy refers to the ability of an instrument to measure the accurate value, it is the closeness of the measured value to a standard or true value. Accuracy can be classified into three types such as point accuracy, accuracy as percentage of scale range, and accuracy as percentage of true value. Point accuracy is the accuracy instrument only at a particular point on its scale, note that this accuracy does not give any information about the general accuracyof the instrument. Accuracy as percentage of scale range determines the accuracy of a measurement. Accuracy as percentage of true value is type of accuracy instrument that is determined by identifying the measured value regarding to their true value.
While the precision, it defines as the closeness of two or more measurements to each other is known as the precision of a substance. Precision is independent of accuracy, it can be separated into repeatability and reproducibility. Repeatability is the variation arising when the conditions are kept identical and repeated measurements are taken during a short period of time. Reproducibility; how much a test varies with another.
Reference:
Accuracy and Precision - The Art of Measurement. Retrieved September 5, 2023 from https://byjus.com/physics/accuracy-precision-measurement/
Both accuracy and precision are important concepts in medical laboratory test procedures. While they are related, they have distinct meanings.
Accuracy: Accuracy refers to the closeness of a measured result to the true value. In the context of laboratory testing, accuracy indicates how closely a test result reflects the actual quantity or characteristic being measured. An accurate test provides results that are in line with the true value.
Precision: Precision refers to the consistency and reproducibility of measurements. In laboratory testing, precision indicates how closely repeated measurements of the same sample agree with each other. A precise test produces consistent results when the same sample is tested multiple times.
Differences between accuracy and precision:
1. Focus: Accuracy focuses on the closeness of the measured result to the true value, while precision focuses on the agreement between repeated measurements.
2. Error types: Accuracy relates to systematic errors, which refer to consistent biases and inaccuracies in measurement. Precision relates to random errors, which are caused by variations in measurement that occur unpredictably.
3. Impact on validity: Lack of accuracy can lead to biased results that differ significantly from the true value, potentially affecting the validity of the test. Lack of precision can result in inconsistent and scattered results, but the average may still be close to the true value.
Similarities between accuracy and precision:
1. Desired qualities: Both accuracy and precision are desirable in laboratory testing. Ideally, a test should be both accurate and precise to provide reliable and valid results.
2. Evaluation: Both accuracy and precision can be evaluated using statistical measures. Accuracy is often assessed by comparing test results to a reference method or known true values. Precision is evaluated by analyzing the variability of repeated measurements, commonly using statistical measures such as standard deviation or coefficient of variation.
3. Improvement: Both accuracy and precision can be improved through various quality assurance measures. Calibration, standardization, and quality control processes are implemented to enhance accuracy by minimizing systematic errors. Precision can be improved by reducing random errors through meticulous technique, instrument calibration, and appropriate sample handling.
Both accuracy and precision are crucial in laboratory testing to ensure reliable and valid results.
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