5 Specimen Acceptance and Rejection Free Online FlashCards

What principle should guide specimen acceptance?

Use written criteria specific to the requested test; a specimen suitable for one procedure may be unsuitable for another.

What should be compared before testing begins?

Compare the specimen with its order or requisition and the applicable laboratory requirements before testing.

Are common rejection reasons automatic rules for every test?

Common rejection reasons are examples, not universal rules; the test-specific procedure determines whether to reject, recollect, or take another action.

When might an irreplaceable specimen receive special assessment?

An approved exception process may be considered for difficult-to-recollect specimens, such as certain surgical tissues or cerebrospinal fluid.

What should staff do if specimen identity is uncertain?

Do not guess, alter a label, or accept an informal correction. Follow the authorized procedure; if identity cannot be established, do not test and request recollection when possible.

What information belongs in the record for a rejection, hold, or exception?

Record the specimen and test, specific reason, decision and authorizer when applicable, time, contacts, instructions, response, and any recollection request or next step.

How should specimen identification be checked?

Confirm that the container is legibly labeled with required identifiers and that they agree with the order.

What specimen and container details must be verified?

Verify that the specimen type, collection device, additive or preservative, and container are appropriate for the test.

What does the quantity-and-quality check assess?

Check that there is enough material and that its condition meets test requirements; clotting, hemolysis, contamination, or leakage can affect reliability.

What timing and handling conditions should be checked?

Confirm the specimen is within its stability limits and was transported and stored under required conditions, such as temperature or light protection.

Can one specimen be acceptable for one test but not another?

Assess each requested test separately: a specimen may be acceptable for some tests but unsuitable for others.

Who must assess an exception for a defective irreplaceable specimen?

A qualified person, such as the laboratory director or designee, must assess the risk under laboratory policy; limitations may need to be recorded or reported.