Lab draws and specimen collection can reduce the need for some clients to travel for ordered testing. When appropriate and authorized, trained staff collect the required specimen using the procedures associated with the order and laboratory requirements. Proper identification, labeling, handling, and communication are important because an incorrectly handled specimen can affect the testing process.
How Home Specimen Collection Helps
For clients with limited mobility or other barriers to travel, appropriate collection at home can make ordered testing more manageable.
We collect specimens according to the applicable order and collection requirements.
We use appropriate identification and labeling procedures for collected specimens.
We follow handling requirements intended to preserve specimen integrity.
We coordinate specimen delivery according to the established laboratory process.
We communicate collection difficulties or relevant concerns to the appropriate party.
Common Collection Support
The type of specimen collected depends on the healthcare provider’s order and the laboratory’s requirements.
Blood draws: We collect ordered blood specimens when the service is appropriate and within our staff’s scope.
Urine specimens: We provide or coordinate collection according to the specified laboratory requirements.
Other specimens: We may collect other ordered specimens when staff are appropriately trained and the service is available.
Labeling: We follow applicable identification and labeling requirements for the collected specimen.
Laboratory coordination: We follow the designated process for getting the specimen to the appropriate laboratory.
Our Approach To Specimen Collection
We verify the applicable order and collection requirements before performing the service. During collection, we focus on correct identification, appropriate technique, labeling, and handling. If collection cannot be completed or a specimen does not meet requirements, we communicate the issue so the appropriate next step can be determined.