What approach can lead to faster reporting of results without purchasing new instrumentation?

• A. Replace VITEK2 with a newer instrument.
• B. Process changes to reporting workflow.
• C. Increase the sample volume.
• D. Extend incubation times.

Answer: (B)

Speeding up results without buying new equipment comes from optimizing how results move from the test to the clinician. The bottlenecks in antimicrobial testing reporting often aren’t the hardware themselves but the steps that happen after data is generated: manual data entry, fragmented systems, waiting for signs-off, and slow handoffs between teams. By tightening the reporting workflow, you can slash turnaround time with existing resources. This includes standardizing data capture so results are already in the correct format, automatically routing findings to the right LIS/LIS-EB interface and the patient chart, and setting up real-time alerts for urgent results. Clear ownership and deadlines for result review and release prevent unnecessary queueing, and predefined steps reduce rework. When results are automatically flagged and pushed to the appropriate channels as soon as they’re ready, clinicians receive them faster without any new hardware.

In contrast, replacing equipment would introduce capital costs and may not address the real delay if the hold-up is in information flow rather than instrument speed. Increasing sample volume can overwhelm staff and systems, potentially slowing reporting instead of speeding it. Extending incubation times delays results at the source, directly increasing turnaround time. So the most effective non-investment route is to overhaul the reporting workflow to reduce friction and delays in how results are communicated.