A properly functioning
specimen collection process is an important function for any laboratory to have in place.
Automated
specimen collection must be differentiated from automated specimen processing.
A change in
specimen collection protocols in 1995, from direct touch/lesion aspirates to swab specimens in transport medium, has resulted in a decline in successful identification of virions in lesion specimens in Winnipeg from 62% to 75% to approximately 10% (Hazelton, unpub.
Barcode
specimen collection uses three hardware components: a barcode scanner, a label printer, and a handheld device or PC for viewing order information and entering relevant comments.
(17.) Validation and verification of tubes for venous and capillary blood
specimen collection; approved guideline.
Testing can be delayed after
specimen collection by up to four hours at room temperature, and longer if refrigerated, without the additional cost of transport media.
In our experiences, the most effective methods of
specimen collection from virus-induced blisters (or ulcers) involve opening the vesicle with a 26-gauge needle.
Because
specimen collection is just one of their many job functions, it is easy to see why mislabeling errors can be even higher in specimens they collect.
For more than 60 years, BD has served as the pioneer and leader in the science of
specimen collection. Over that time, we have developed deep expertise that complements our comprehensive product portfolio.
Specimen collection and management is administered by care providers in dynamic, often-distracting environments.
Urine
specimen collection varies considerably, depending on the setting in which the specimen is collected.