When collecting a 24-hour urine specimen, the urine collected at 7 a.m. on the first day is typically discarded, and the collection begins from that point onward.
Red Blood Cells (RBCs) are lysed in hemolyzed samples, which releases hemoglobin into the serum. The serum will change color to pink or crimson.
The most frequent method of taking blood from a patient is via venous blood. For newborn heel sticks or glucose finger sticks, capillary blood is frequently used (bilirubin). For some assays, such Arterial Blood Gas, arterial blood is used.
All the essential nutrients are delivered to the various body areas by the circulatory system. Blood is received by and pumped out by the heart. Deoxygenated blood from the tissues is returned to the heart by veins.
A routine specimen collection can be done at any time, depending on the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the healthcare facility or laboratory.
The amount of stool needed for a specimen is generally around 1 to 2 tablespoons (tbsp). This quantity is sufficient for laboratory analysis and diagnostic purposes. However, it's important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the specific test being performed or the instructions provided by the healthcare provider or laboratory.
For the other organs to function properly, the circulatory system is in charge of transporting nutrients throughout the body. The lymphatic system is in charge of cleansing the blood, which is pumped throughout the body by the cardiovascular system (the heart).
The typical person's blood volume is 5 liters, or 5.3 quarts.
When collecting a 24-hour urine specimen, the urine collected at 7 a.m. on the last day is typically included in the collection. Unlike the first morning urine on the first day, which is discarded, the urine collected at 7 a.m. on the last day is saved and included in the 24-hour urine specimen. This ensures that the full 24-hour period is covered for accurate measurement and analysis.
When collecting a specimen, it is important to maintain proper hygiene practices to prevent the spread of infectious agents. Washing your hands before and after handling specimens is crucial.
A major element that may affect the integrity of a blood sample is the mode of delivery.
Following four rules helps maintain the quality and accuracy of specimens, ensuring that they are suitable for laboratory analysis and interpretation. It is important for healthcare professionals to adhere to proper specimen collection procedures and guidelines to obtain reliable results and provide optimal patient care.
A lipemic specimen has an elevated level of lipids or fats in the blood. The serum will be milky white and cloudy after centrifuging the sample (and occasionally before). The quantity of lipids in the blood determines the degree of haziness.
It is recommended to put on gloves before touching a bedpan, patient, or specimen. Wearing gloves serves as a protective barrier and helps minimize the risk of spreading infectious agents or coming into contact with bodily fluids or contaminants.
The blood flow is consistent and simple to control after a venous blood draw. Blood is a deep red color.
Urinary infection from contamination is a potential problem when collecting urine from an indwelling Foley catheter. Indwelling catheters are commonly used in healthcare settings to drain urine from the bladder when a patient is unable to void independently. However, their presence can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract.
