Microbiology Specimen Collection, Transport, and Reception

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers key terms, definitions, and essential concepts regarding the collection, transport, and reception of microbiology specimens as outlined in the lecture notes.

Specimen (Sample)

Any body fluid, tissue, feces, or swab collected from a patient and sent to the microbiology laboratory to identify microorganisms that may be causing an infection.

Microbiology

The study of microorganisms that cause disease.

Microorganisms

Organisms too small to be seen without a microscope, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Contamination

The accidental introduction of unwanted microorganisms into a specimen, which can affect test results.

Commensal bacteria

Microorganisms that normally live on or inside the body without causing disease.

Fastidious bacteria

Bacteria that are difficult to grow, require special nutrients or conditions, and may die quickly after antibiotic exposure.

Aerobic bacteria

Microorganisms that require oxygen to survive.

Anaerobic bacteria

Microorganisms that cannot survive in the presence of oxygen.

NAAT

Nucleic Acid Amplification Test; used to detect bacterial or viral genetic material, commonly for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia.

STAT

A designation meaning urgent; the specimen must be processed immediately.

Aspirate

A specimen collected using a needle and syringe; it is preferred over swabs for many deep infections.

Boric acid tube

A tube used for urine collection that prevents bacterial multiplication and preserves the specimen for up to $48$ hours.

Primary Receptacle

The specimen container itself (e.g., sterile urine container, blood culture bottle) which must be watertight and leak-proof.

Secondary Receptacle

A watertight container that holds the primary container and contains absorbent material to soak up leaks if the primary container breaks.

Outer Package

A durable external package that protects the secondary container from moisture, pressure, temperature changes, and physical damage during transport.

Transport media

A solution designed to keep microorganisms alive without allowing them to multiply significantly by maintaining proper pH and preventing dehydration.

Reference laboratory

A specialized laboratory that performs tests not available in smaller laboratories.

Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Act

Canadian legislation that regulates the safe transport of hazardous materials, including microbiology specimens.

Reception

The first step in the laboratory after a specimen arrives, involving receiving, checking, and preparing the specimen for testing.

Accessioning

The process of registering a specimen and entering identifying information into the laboratory computer system before testing begins.

Laboratory Information System (LIS)

A computer system used to track specimens, record patient data, and manage laboratory information.

Requisition

The laboratory test request that accompanies a specimen, providing information on tests ordered and clinical history.

Acceptance Criteria

A set of requirements a specimen must meet (such as correct labeling and proper container) before the laboratory will accept it for testing.

Chain of Custody

A documented record of every individual who handled a specimen from collection until testing to ensure no tampering or substitution occurred.

Formalin

A chemical fixative that kills microorganisms, making it impossible to perform microbiology cultures if a tissue specimen is placed in it.

Sputum

Mucus coughed up from deep within the lungs, used to diagnose lower respiratory infections.