Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) are systematic processes used to ensure:

• A. Accuracy, precision, and reliability of results
• B. Rapid turnover of samples
• C. Not necessary for routine testing
• D. Only instrument cleanliness

Answer: (B)

QA and QC are systematic processes that ensure accuracy, precision, and reliability of laboratory results. QA provides the overall framework for quality across the entire testing workflow—validating methods, training staff, documenting procedures, and qualifying equipment—so the testing process is designed to produce trustworthy results. QC consists of the routine, day-to-day checks that catch errors as tests are performed—controls and calibrations, instrument performance checks, repeat analyses, and participation in proficiency testing—so any deviations are detected and corrected before reporting. Together, they focus on the quality of the results, not on speed of processing or on one narrow aspect like cleanliness. Hence, the best description is that QA/QC ensure accuracy, precision, and reliability of results.