In clinical chemistry, automation is a process or mechanism that uses automated instruments or machines to mimic manual techniques in the easier and faster way possible. While the manual method is performed through a step-by-step procedure that is operated manually without the use of automated machines or devices. Generating a precise and accurate result is one of the most important objectives no matter what method is to be used.
According to Chadwick (n.d.), increased productivity rate, better quality of the product, less labor intensive, and reduction of the number of hours in performing a certain analyte procedure are the advantages of an automated machine. In terms of its accuracy and specificity, automated machines could provide us with higher sensitivity and specificity rates. For example, a spectrophotometer is one of the automated machines that is used to test different analytes, where the amount of absorbance of a solution is directly proportional to the concentration of the sample (Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, 2017). However, some automated machines are highly sophisticated and expensive, a higher level of maintenance is needed, and there are still interferences that might affect the result of the sample.
On the other hand, manual methods, also known as classical techniques, one of the disadvantages is it requires a lot of time, effort, and equipment in order to attain the expected result of a sample or analyte, resulting in a low productivity rate (Jankowski, 2022). To obtain an accurate result requires good preparation of the sample, proper monitoring, and observation of the reaction, and it needs a knowledgeable and skillful staff.
References:
Chadwick, A. (n.d). Advantages and Disadvantages of automation. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/technology/automation/Advantages-and-disadvantages-of-automation
Clinical Chemistry Laboratory. (2017, November 8). Retrieved from https://basicmedicalkey.com/clinical-chemistry-laboratory/
Jankowski, P. (2022, December 7). Manual vs. Automated Analytics in
Chemsitry Laboratories. Retrieved from https://study.com/academy/lesson/manual-vs-automated-analytics-in-chemistry-laboratories.html
Principles of Clinical Chemistry Automation. (2017, March 9). Retrieved from https://basicmedicalkey.com/principles-of-clinical-chemistry-automation/#:~:text=In%20clinical%20chemistry%2C%20automation%20is,and%20data%20collection%20and%20analysis.
Lixie Mae Domingo When identifying various analytes, automated equipment and manual procedures differ in numerous ways. The following are some of the distinctions between the two methods:
1. Validity of Results: The most significant aspects in determining the validity of findings from an automated machine or manual approach are accuracy and specificity of the results.
Automatic Machines: Because of the programmed algorithms and advanced equipment utilized in the process, automated machines are noted for their great accuracy, precision, and repeatability. Moreover, automated equipment can handle a huge number of samples in a short amount of time, reducing the possibility of human mistake in processing the samples. As a result, they are a more reliable way of identifying analytes.
Manual procedures are prone to human error, resulting in less precise outcomes. Inconsistencies in sample processing, measurement, and data analysis might jeopardize the accuracy of the results. Manual approaches, on the other hand, can yield precise results if executed properly, especially when expert operators are involved.
2. Disadvantages and Benefits:
Machines that are automated:
Advantages:
.They require little human interaction and can handle a large number of samples quickly.
Automatic machines are more accurate, precise, and reproducible.
They lessen the possibility of contamination and human mistake.
They are more efficient and cost-effective in the long term.
Acquiring and maintaining automated machinery is costly.
These may necessitate the use of highly qualified staff to operate and maintain the equipment.
Certain automated devices may have limited flexibility, making it difficult to tailor the process to unique demands.
Manual Techniques:
Advantages:
Manual procedures are quite cheap.
They need little equipment and may be carried out using standard laboratory equipment.
Manual techniques are very adaptable, making them appropriate for research investigations requiring specialized circumstances.
Disadvantages:
Manual procedures are prone to human mistake, which affects productivity.