If you have ever been involved in collecting blood samples, you know that the job is not done after the blood has been drawn. There is the labeling and transporting of the samples that have to be done. These steps are important in avoiding errors and ensuring the accuracy of results and the safety of individuals.
A mistake in the process can lead to misdiagnosis and treatment errors, therefore, it is very important that the proper steps are taken to ensure correct labeling and transport of blood samples to the laboratory.
Let’s take a look at the steps that should be taken to properly label and transport laboratory samples.
Steps to Take to Label and Transport Blood Samples
Step 1: Proper Labeling
Label Sample Immediately:
- Do It Right Away. Label each sample tube immediately after drawing the blood. Delaying this step can increase the risk of mixing up samples. What you don’t want is to have a sample or more that is not labeled. If that happens you have to call back the person to redo the blood draw. So, to avoid that, label samples immediately after drawing blood.
Use Correct Information:
- Patient Details: Ensure the label includes the patient’s full name, date of birth, and any other identifiers required by your facility.
- Date and Time: Include the date and time of the draw to help with sample tracking and testing timelines.
- Phlebotomist’s Initials: Adding the initials of the person who drew the blood can help trace back any issues or questions about the sample.
Verify Patient Information:
- Double-Check: Verify all information on the label against the patient’s records before finalizing it. This step is crucial to prevent any mix-ups.
Use Legible Writing:
- Clear and Concise: If you are handwriting labels, ensure the writing is legible. Many facilities use pre-printed labels to avoid this issue. In any case, if you write them make sure the labels are clear and readable.
Step 2: Proper Packaging
Securely Cap Tubes:
- Prevent Leaks: Ensure all tubes are securely capped to prevent any leakage during transportation. Check the cap of each tube as you put them in the specimen bag or container to make sure they are fitted properly. If a cap is loosely fitted, it can come off and there can be a blood spill.
Use Biohazard Bags:
- Containment: Place labeled tubes in biohazard transport bags. Most bags have separate compartments for paperwork to avoid contamination. Place the tube in the inside compartment and put the paper work in the outside one. As you put tubes in bags, cross check to ensure the tube and the paperwork have the same information.
Include Requisition Forms:
- Documentation: Ensure that the correct requisition form is completed and accompanies the sample. Place it in the designated pocket of the biohazard bag.
Step 3: Proper Transport
Temperature Control:
- Maintain Conditions: Transport samples at the appropriate temperature. Some tests require samples to be kept cold, while others should remain at room temperature. Use cool packs or insulated containers as needed. It is important to keep the blood samples at the correct temperature to maintain stability and integrity.
Use a Specimen Transport Log:
- Track Samples: Keep a transport log with details of each sample, including patient information, date and time of collection, and destination. This log helps track samples throughout the transportation process. If there is a mix up of any kind or samples are missing, the log can provide help.
Prompt Delivery:
- Timely Transport: Transport the samples to the laboratory as quickly as possible to ensure that they are tested within the required time frame. Delays can affect the integrity of the sample and the accuracy of the test results. Each test has a certain amount of time it can stay at room temperature and refrigerated. So, testing has to be done within that timeframe.
Follow Protocols:
- Adhere to Guidelines: Follow your facility’s specific protocols for transporting samples. These protocols are designed to ensure sample integrity and safety. Use the appropriate bags and containers for transporting samples.
Step 4: Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Protect Yourself: Always wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves and lab coats, when handling and transporting blood samples. Protecting yourself is paramount here. Wear the necessary equipment required by your facility and follow other established protocols.
Follow Biohazard Guidelines:
- Handle with Care: Treat all blood samples as potentially infectious materials and follow biohazard safety guidelines. Your are dealing with other people’s blood and you want to treat it as a biohazard as you don’t know what it contains. So, handle with care, trying to avoid any mishaps.
Regular Training:
- Stay Updated: It is important that all personnel involved in sample collection, labeling, and transport are trained regularly and updated on the latest protocols and procedures.
Conclusion
Proper labeling and transport of blood samples to the laboratory are vital steps in the diagnostic process. There are good reasons why these steps are there and should be followed. When they are followed, you can ensure that samples will reach the lab accurately, safely, and in good condition, leading to accurate test results and proper treatment care.
Also, not only is it about accuracy and patient care, it’s also about personnel protecting themselves from potential accidents and harm. Proper labeling and proper transport of samples cannot be overstated!