The accuracy of test results greatly depends on proper patient preparation and careful specimen handling prior to laboratory testing. To ensure the integrity for any specimen, please check specimen requirements listed for each test in the on-line Lab Testing Directory and the Specimen Collection web page. Specimen requirements include the type of container, type of specimen, the volume of specimen, and any special handling instructions. To aid specimen stability and protect the clinical value of patient results, clients should refrigerate specimens prior to delivery to the lab unless otherwise indicated in the individual test requirements. We will not perform testing on any specimen that is unacceptable according to the guidelines specified on this website. Every attempt will be made to contact the office or floor submitting the specimen, so that changes can be made to make the specimen acceptable. Please refer to the specimen labeling requirements specified below and the specimen handling requirements located on the Specimen Collection web page. The acceptability of specimens which are difficult to collect, such as amniotic fluid or CSF, will be evaluated by the laboratory department supervisor where the testing is to be performed. If a client insists that testing be completed on an unacceptable specimen, the test may be run with appropriate comments entered with the result. Final determination will be by the supervisor or deferred to the pathologist if indicated. Providence Laboratory will not accept liability when the true identity of a specimen is in question. Any supervisor or charge technician has the authority to reject a specimen of questionable identity. If you have any questions about new or unusual test requirements, refer to the on-line Lab Testing Directory or call our Client Services Department at 261-3631 for information. Specimens rejected for testing will not be billed to the patient or clients. Specimen Labeling: “*” must be on the patient sample.
Specimens submitted for testing must be accurately labeled with the following information.
1. *Patient’s name (last, first, no abbreviations)
2. *Date and time specimen was obtained
3. *Patient’s Medical Record Number (for inpatients)
4. Refer to the Specimen Collection web page for Transfusion Medicine, Pathology and Cytology specimen labeling.
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