Which statement best describes calibration, verification, and validation in a QC program?

• A. Calibration sets instrument response to known standards.
• B. Verification confirms performance for a specific range or method.
• C. Validation establishes performance characteristics for a method or assay.
• D. Calibration replaces the need for traceability.

Answer: (A)

Calibration establishes a known relationship between instrument output and standard values by adjusting the instrument so its readings match those known standards. This creates traceability and ensures measurements reflect true values, forming the basis for accurate QC results. Verification checks that the instrument or method performs adequately within a defined range or for a specific procedure without adjusting the instrument. Validation confirms that a method or assay is capable of meeting its intended use by establishing its performance characteristics. Calibration does not replace traceability; it supports it by aligning measurements to recognized standards. So, the statement that calibration sets the instrument response to known standards best captures its role in a QC program.