4 Pre-Collection Preparation and Safety

Review test-specific instructions

Preparation before collection helps prevent avoidable exposure, collection errors, delays, and specimen-quality problems. Always follow the facility's current procedure and the specific requirements for the ordered test and specimen.

Prepare the workspace and equipment

Before gathering supplies, check the order and the laboratory's collection instructions. Confirm the required specimen type, collection container or device, special handling or timing requirements, and whether the patient needs preparation before collection. Requirements can differ by test and facility, so clarify any missing or conflicting instructions before proceeding.

For example, if a test requires a particular tube or special handling, identify that requirement before setup so the correct supplies are ready and the specimen can be handled as directed.

Set up the collection area

Choose a clean, well-lit work area that allows the procedure to be performed safely and with appropriate privacy. Clear the work surface and arrange supplies within easy reach, without crossing over clean items or reaching across the patient.

Gather the equipment required by the local procedure and test instructions. Check that each item is the correct type, intact, within its expiration date where applicable, and ready to use. Use sterile, single-use collection devices when required; do not use devices that are damaged, contaminated, or otherwise unsuitable.

Keep clean supplies separate from used or contaminated items. Avoid opening sterile items until they are needed, and protect the collection site and supplies from unnecessary contact. Place a Sharps container within easy reach before beginning a procedure involving a sharp.

Perform hand hygiene

Perform Hand hygiene at appropriate moments, including before putting on gloves and after removing them. Use soap and water or an approved alcohol-based hand rub according to facility policy and product instructions. If hands are visibly soiled, wash with soap and water. Gloves do not replace Hand hygiene.

Select and use protective equipment

Use Standard precautions for every patient. Select Personal protective equipment (PPE) according to the anticipated exposure and any additional precautions required. Wear gloves when contact with blood, potentially infectious material, non-intact skin, or contaminated equipment may occur. Add a gown, mask, eye protection, or face shield when the task or the patient's precautions create a risk of splashes, sprays, or other exposure.

Put PPE on before the task that presents an exposure risk. Change gloves between patients and if they become torn, contaminated, or otherwise compromised. After the task, remove and discard PPE appropriately, then perform hand hygiene.

Complete the readiness check

Before starting, pause to check that:

• The collection instructions and required supplies are clear.

• Equipment is appropriate, intact, and ready for use.

• The workspace is clean, organized, and adequately lit.

• Hand hygiene has been performed and the required PPE is in place.

• A sharps container and any needed waste receptacles are accessible.

If a required item or instruction is missing, stop and resolve the issue before collection. Do not improvise in a way that could compromise safety or specimen quality.

The preparation sequence is to review the test-specific instructions, organize and check supplies, prepare a clean workspace, perform hand hygiene, use PPE appropriate to the anticipated exposure, and complete a final readiness check.