Which value represents the acceptable total error for triglyceride measurements under NCEP guidelines?

• A. <10%
• B. <15%
• C. <20%
• D. <25%

Answer: (B)

Total error is the combination of bias (systematic error) and imprecision (random error) in a measurement. For triglyceride testing, the National Cholesterol Education Program sets a practical limit: the total error should be 15% or less. This keeps results reliable for deciding about cardiovascular risk and treatment.

So, a triglyceride result is acceptable if it lies within 15% of the true value. For example, if the true triglyceride level is 150 mg/dL, an acceptable report would be anywhere from about 127.5 to 172.5 mg/dL (15% of 150 is 22.5). Choices that require tighter (e.g., 10%) or looser (20% or 25%) accuracy don’t align with the guideline.