LABORATORY OF PATHOLOGY ONLINE POLICY MANUAL
SPECIMEN COLLECTION
The individual clinical sections have developed specimen collection and handling instructions that reflect the requirements of the diagnostic tests performed. The specific instructions for specimen collection are available on the Laboratory of Pathology Web Site for all Clinical Center Clinicians. Specific instructions for the proper collection and handling of specimens are updated regularly and reviewed annually. These are available within the Laboratory of Pathology Web Site
LP employees do not collect blood specimens for clinical tests or controls. Phlebotomists from the Clinical Center have been trained in the proper selection and use of equipment/supplies and collection techniques, and have evaluated the effectiveness of its engineering and work practices to significantly reduce or eliminate exposure to bloodborne pathogens during phlebotomy.
If blood collection is needed for controls LP employees may contact phlebotomy at 496-3105 for assistance. Prior to collection, the employee/volunteer must be registered as a patient in CC Admissions and sign an informed consent. The electronic order can be placed in the Clinical Research Information System (CRIS) by a clinician with ordering privileges under an appropriate IRB-approved protocol.
The LP must solicit a written or electronic authorization for verbal orders within 30 days. The laboratory must retain the authorization or documentation of efforts made to obtain an authorization. If an employee is unable to obtain the order, please record the incidents on the Quality Improvement and Assessment Log
Trained/credentialed personnel collect all other types of specimens (e.g., fine needle aspirates, biopsies, bone marrow specimens, surgical specimens).
Laboratories may receive specimens from outside NIH. Individuals wishing to send samples must contact specific labs for additional shipping and documentation requirements (e.g., reason for consult, specific questions to be answered, referring pathologist, working diagnosis, pertinent clinical information, etc).
Last Updated 1/12/2009 2:43:06 PM
