CSC Specimen Handling & Transportation Flashcards

What is the consequence of a urine specimen exceeding the acceptable temperature range during transport?

Answer: It must be rejected as potentially compromised

Temperature excursions can degrade analytes or promote bacterial growth, making results unreliable, so the specimen is rejected.

What does 'SOP' stand for in the context of specimen handling?

Answer: Standard Operating Procedure

SOPs are documented step-by-step instructions that standardize handling procedures to ensure consistency and compliance.

What is the recommended maximum storage time for an oral fluid specimen at room temperature before testing?

Answer: 24 hours

Oral fluid specimens stored at room temperature are generally stable for up to 24 hours before testing must occur.

A specimen collected at 10:00 AM cannot be tested until the next day. What is the correct storage method?

Answer: Refrigerate at 2–8°C

Refrigeration at 2–8°C preserves most urinary analytes for up to 24–48 hours without freezing-related degradation.

Which document must accompany every specimen from collection site to laboratory to ensure legal defensibility?

Answer: Chain of custody form

The chain of custody form documents every person who handled the specimen, ensuring it is legally defensible in court or administrative proceedings.

What is the correct action if a specimen tube is accidentally dropped and the tube cracks but does not break open?

Answer: Reject the specimen and recollect if possible

A cracked tube compromises both specimen integrity and safe handling, requiring rejection and recollection per standard protocol.