Specimen Collection

A laboratory result can be misleading before the specimen ever reaches the analyzer. The wrong patient, wrong source, wrong container, contamination, hemolysis, inadequate volume, excessive delay, or improper temperature can change the result or make the specimen unusable. For every collection, follow the same safety chain: verify the order and patient, prepare the patient and supplies, collect with the approved method, label at the bedside, protect the specimen during transport, and respond appropriately if its identity or integrity is uncertain. The receiving laboratory’s test directory, facility policy, collection device instructions, and manufacturer directions determine details such as timing, additive, storage temperature, holding time, and transport method.