6 Specimen Handling Practice Cases Free Online FlashCards

What should govern specimen handling decisions?

Follow the written procedure for the specific test; acceptable specimen types, handling requirements, and rejection criteria can vary.

What should you do when specimen identifiers conflict with the order?

Do not infer the correct identity or relabel the tube. Quarantine or reject it under policy, contact the authorized collector or requester, and document the discrepancy.

How should a leaking specimen container be handled?

Treat the leak as a safety and specimen-integrity problem. Follow spill and rejection procedures, notify the submitting site, and request recollection if needed.

How should a delayed blood tube with multiple ordered tests be assessed?

Check stability, specimen type, and separation requirements for each ordered test. Do not apply one universal time limit or judge acceptability by appearance alone.

What is important when a serum tube is centrifuged before clotting is complete?

Follow the tube manufacturer’s instructions and the laboratory’s validated procedure for clotting and centrifugation. Check the specimen for fibrin or other problems before applying test-specific acceptance rules.

What should an operator do when centrifuge tubes are poorly balanced?

Stop the run and balance the rotor according to equipment instructions and laboratory procedure, using suitable counterbalancing tubes or materials.

What if a refrigerated specimen has different storage instructions?

Compare the actual storage history with the specific test requirements, document any deviation, and consult the responsible laboratory professional about validity or recollection.

How should an unlabeled specimen be handled?

Follow written policy; do not label it from memory or treat verbal identification as an automatic substitute. Any permitted exception requires authorization, documentation, and communication.

What should you do with a specimen in the wrong container and below minimum volume?

Determine whether the container or quantity makes the specimen unsuitable. Reject and request recollection when policy requires; transfer it only if the procedure specifically permits.

How should uncertain transport temperature be addressed?

Check the test’s transport limits and available evidence, document the uncertainty, and escalate under policy. Do not assume the specimen stayed suitable.

What identity checks should be made on a received specimen?

Verify that the required identifiers on the specimen match the requisition or electronic order and that the label is attached to the container.

What determines whether a specimen is suitable for a test?

Confirm that the specimen type, container, additive, and volume meet the requirements for the requested test.