Specimen Collection and Handling

The specimen requirements for the proper collection and handling of specimens are given below. Correct collection and handling of the specimens is essential for quality testing.

• Specimen containers must be labeled with the patient’s full name (first and last name) and the test to be performed.
• Specimens collected in gold top tubes must be centrifuged to ensure specimen integrity. These specimens must be allowed to clot for at least 25 to 30 minutes for complete clot formation before centrifugation. Insufficient time for clot formation will result in incomplete separation of the specimen, which will lead to the presence of clots and cells in the serum. Incomplete specimen separation may jeopardize the quality of the test results, and ultimately, may be the cause for specimen rejection.
• Specimens collected in light blue (sodium citrate) or lavender (EDTA) top tubes contain additives to inhibit coagulation. To ensure coagulation is inhibited, the blood must be mixed with the additives throughout by inverting the tube 10 to 12 times gently immediately after the blood is drawn.
• Urine specimens should be submitted one aliquot per test requested. If the test requires a 24-hour collection, please indicate, on the specimen container and the requisition, the urine volume.
• Specimen biohazard bags are provided for specimen transportation. The bags have two pockets. The specimen should be placed in the zip-lock pocket. The requisition should be placed in the outside pocket. One bag should be used per patient.

If you have any questions regarding specimen collection, preparation, or transportation, please call your clinical client representative or customer support at 1-800-533-6730 or 309-655-2336.