Handle blood samples as required for diagnostic purposes

Preanalytical and postanalytical considerations pertaining to specimen quality and consistency

What should you consult if there are any questions regarding the required handling?

laboratory directory

What are preanalytical errors?

ones that occur prior, during, or immediatley after preforming the venipuncture procedures

Examples of preanalytical wrrors

mislabeling specimens, errors in pt identification, mislabeling of specimen tubes, sample collection errors, insufficient quantity for testing, and incorrect handling or transporting processes

What are postanalytical errors?

occur after specimen has been processed

Examples of postanalytical errors?

failure in reporting results, improper data entry, or misinterpretation of results

If you question integrity of the specimen who should be informed?

the provider

If a provider ordered a specimen collection at a specific time who should be responsible to make sure that the procedure and specimen collection are preformed at the correct time?

The MA

Timed specimens are crucial for therapeutic drug level monitoring to confirm …

the pt. medication dosage and adherence

Glucose tolerance test (GTT)

times specimen which elevates glucose levels over time to assess for diabetes

If pt arrive early or has not followed the test instructions what should you do?

contact the ordering provider for direction

Not meeting specimen requirements will cause what?

render a specimen unsuitable for testing and compromise the integrity of the test results

For handling specimens needed as evidence in court cases what should be done?

specimens be collected, handled, and stored with guidelines established by law often requiring a chain of custody

Test/Procedures that require a chain of custody documentation?

blood alcohol levels and drug screenings

Chain of Custody requires documented signatures of every individual that has any …

contact with the specimen from time of collection to time results are reported