Introduction to specimen collection, preparation and handling at OMHS Laboratory Services
Lab tests contribute vital information about a patient's health. Correct patient diagnosis and treatment rely, in part, on the accuracy of test results. Adequate patient preparation, specimen collection, and specimen handling are essential for accurate testing. The quality of laboratory results is directly dependent on the proper collection and handling of the patient specimen.
All specimens received in the laboratory must be appropriately labeled with the patient's name, date of birth, location of the specimen, time of collection, date and the initials of the person collecting the specimen. The specimen must be placed in a biohazard bag and delivered promptly to the laboratory with a properly completed requisition. Specimens not properly labeled cannot be used for testing thus it is absolutely necessary they be labeled with patient name, time and date.