Each specimen must be placed into a “Histology Specimen” polybag. The intention of this outline is to offer a method of optimum specimen handling. Specimens collected from multiple sites must be collected in separate containers with the anatomic site indicated. The proper care and handling of medical specimens is important, avoids specimen mix-ups and maintains specimen integrity. Specific specimen requirements for each test are listed in the Test Directory. The name or other identifying information on the requisition does not match that provided on the specimen container. Specimen Handling and Processing (Centrifugation) 1. Upon receipt, specimens are checked for proper labeling and accompanying paperwork. Clearly printed handwritten information on the sample vial label using indelible ink, 90 ml sterile container with 40 mL of histology preservative (10% neutral buffered formalin), 20 ml sterile container with 10 mL of histology preservative (10% neutral buffered formalin). 3 . Verification is documented on the requisition form and included in gross dictation (correct information, person providing information, date information was received, and name of person accepting the information). The intention of this outline is to offer a method of optimum specimen handling. Computer printed label affixed to the side of the specimen container. The proper care and handling of medical specimens is important, avoids specimen mix-ups and maintains specimen integrity. The completed requisition must be placed in the separate pocket of the poly bag for this purpose (separated from the specimen container). 1116 & 1137. Refer to the "Blood Collection” policy and procedure for a more detailed description on the collection of blood specimens prior to testing. Criteria for REJECTION of a specimen are: If name on surgical specimen does not match those on the requisition, attempts are made to verify correct name (i.e., maiden/married name). 2 . Use good … Specimen container(s) must be tightly sealed to ensure safe handling and quality patient results. • Adhere to universal precautions when handling specimens • Follow handling of specimens and storage as directed by the laboratory untilspecimens are transported to the laboratory by the courier. Copyright 2015 | All Rights Reserved | Designed by, Specimen Collection & Handling Guidelines, The patient’s full name (printed in the same format as patient’s health card), A second identifier such as date of birth or health card number. After the specimen has been allowed to fully clot, the tube is to be centrifuged within 1 hour of collection and no longer than 2 hours after collection. Leaking specimen container(s) may result in poor fixation, illegible labeling and lost tissue samples. Therefore, all specimens must be collected using standard precautions. If more than 6 specimens are submitted for one patient, two separate requisitions must be completed. Specimen collection Infection Prevention and Control Guidance (Policy) for General Practice All specimens are a potential infection risk. Specimens for routine tissue pathology must be submitted in a container of 10% neutral buffered formalin (biopsies for examination by direct immunofluorescence techniques must be submitted in a special transport medium [Michel Transport Medium or Universal Fixative]). Call Us Today! The specimen collection and handling process can be completed by you and your staff, or by referring your patient to a Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center. The following information must be provided in a legible format: All specimens should be clearly labeled BEFORE being sent to the laboratory for testing, to ensure correct identification of the patient and sample. Serum tubes must be placed in an upright vertical position and allowed to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes before centrifuging. Consider all specimens, controls, reagents and calibrators that contain human blood, serum, urine or body fluids as potentially infectious. All specimens should be accompanied by a requisition form, which has been properly completed with the following information: There are two sizes of specimen containers routinely available for histology. All surgical specimens MUST be accompanied by a legible requisition form. 813-882-9986 ext. The submitting surgical suite, physician office or clinic is called for information that is not written on the order form. Each specimen/container must be labeled with: The optimum volume of fixation is 10-20 times of the specimen volume. Specimens must be stored at room temperature and must not be subjected to freezing or extreme temperatures. Specimen container is empty or insufficient for processing. Specimen is not labeled and/or accompanied by a completed requisition. Please contact the laboratory for clarifications, if needed, prior to specimen collection. Kit components are ordered separately: 1 . Following are general guidelines for blood and urine (urinalysis) specimen processing and handling at this facility. example: (room temperature, refrigeration) Ensure all the lids of all specimens are secured tightly and ready for transport when placing in a biohazardous bag. 4 . No fresh specimens, body fluids, or blood samples will be accepted by this laboratory. Specimens are accepted only if collected by appropriate means in  Buffered Formalin or Michel’s Fixative and under the direction of a physician or his/her designee. 5.