According to CLIA 1988, how often must laboratory equipment be recalibrated?

Laboratory equipment must be recalibrated every 6 months according to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) of 1988. This requirement ensures that the equipment maintains accuracy and reliability in test results, which is crucial for patient care and lab credibility. Regular recalibration helps to account for any potential drifts in the measurements that can occur over time, and adhering to this timeframe establishes a standard of quality control that laboratories must follow. This regulation is part of the larger framework designed to ensure that laboratory practices meet established quality standards to provide safe and effective healthcare. The specified 6-month interval strikes a balance between ensuring accuracy and managing the practicalities of laboratory operations.