Specimen Collection & Handling Flashcards

When should a specimen tube be labeled?

Answer: Immediately after collection, in the patient's presence

Labeling at the point of collection with the patient present prevents identification errors.

Which is the correct way to verify identity of an alert outpatient?

Answer: Ask the patient to state full name and date of birth

Active patient identification using two identifiers avoids confirmation bias.

An unconscious patient has no ID wristband. What should the collector do?

Answer: Obtain proper identification from a nurse or caregiver before collecting

Collection must not proceed until positive identification is established per policy.

A tube arrives with a mismatched label. What is the usual correct action?

Answer: Reject it and recollect

Irreplaceable-specimen exceptions aside, mislabeled specimens are rejected and recollected.

What fasting time is typically required for a fasting glucose or lipid panel?

Answer: 8–12 hours

Eight to twelve hours of fasting standardizes glucose and triglyceride values.

Which item is essential on a timed specimen label?

Answer: Exact time of collection

Timed tests such as drug levels depend on the documented collection time.

Which practice is a common cause of in-vitro hemolysis?

Answer: Vigorously shaking the tube

Vigorous mixing ruptures red cells and falsely elevates potassium and other analytes.