When working in a laboratory setting, the integrity and validity of specimens are crucial for accurate and reliable results. Ensuring that samples are properly collected, handled, and processed is part of good laboratory practice. Here are five critical ways to check for specimen validity on lab paperwork:
1. Verify Patient Identification
Proper patient identification is the first and most critical step in ensuring specimen validity:
- Check the patient’s full name, date of birth, and unique identifiers (like medical record number) on both the specimen label and lab requisition form.
- Ensure that these details match exactly with the patient’s medical records to avoid mix-ups.
- If there are any discrepancies, flag the specimen for further review.
🔍 Note: Even small differences in names or dates of birth can lead to serious errors in test results.
2. Inspect for Sample Condition
The condition of the sample can affect testing:
- Examine if the specimen appears hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric, which might indicate improper handling or patient condition affecting the result.
- Check the color, clarity, and presence of any unusual odors or appearances.
- Verify the quantity of the specimen is adequate for the requested tests.
🌡 Note: Hemolysis can release intracellular contents into the serum or plasma, potentially altering test results.
3. Review Collection Dates and Times
Timing is essential for specimen validity:
- Ensure the specimen was collected within the appropriate time frame for the test.
- Check if the time between collection and receipt at the lab was within acceptable limits for stability of the analyte.
4. Assess Handling and Storage Details
Correct handling and storage are crucial for specimen integrity:
- Verify if the specimen was transported at the correct temperature (e.g., room temperature, on ice, or frozen).
- Check if the sample was shaken or agitated during transport, which can affect its integrity.
- Look for evidence of chain-of-custody or proper documentation if the specimen is sensitive to environmental conditions.
| Storage Condition | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Maintaining enzyme activity and preventing bacterial growth |
| Freezing | Long-term preservation of some biological markers |
5. Evaluate Lab Requisition Details
Lastly, ensure all details on the lab requisition form align with the sample received:
- Confirm the tests requested are appropriate for the specimen type and condition.
- Verify if additional information or special handling instructions are documented, such as fasting status, drug therapy, or other relevant clinical details.
- Check for any patient consent, if required, especially for genetic testing or HIV testing.
In summary, validating a specimen for testing involves several steps to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the laboratory results. Ensuring proper patient identification, checking the condition and collection timing, assessing handling and storage, and evaluating the lab requisition form's details all contribute to the process. Mistakes in any of these areas can lead to retesting, which not only increases costs but can delay diagnosis and treatment. Taking time to verify each step meticulously helps maintain the highest standard of care in laboratory diagnostics.
What should I do if there’s a discrepancy in patient identification?
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If there’s a discrepancy, you should flag the specimen for review. Contact the physician or the healthcare provider who ordered the test to clarify the identity or to request a new sample if necessary.
Can I test a sample that looks hemolyzed?
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Testing can be performed, but hemolyzed samples might not yield accurate results for some tests. Discuss with the medical director or pathologist to decide on further actions.
What are the consequences of poor specimen handling?
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Poor handling can lead to contamination, degradation of sample quality, inaccurate test results, or the need for specimen recollection, which delays treatment.
