Microbiology

Ensure the following information is fixed to each specimen container:

• Patient’s full name (first name and last name) AND one of the following additional identifiers:

• Personal Health Number (PHN)
• Medical Record Number (MRN)
• Date of Birth (yyyy/mm/dd)

•  Source and type of specimen
• Date and time of collection

Multiple specimens requiring individual diagnosis should be placed in separate containers to be accessioned separately.

If specimens are not labeled, or are mislabeled, a repeat specimen may have to be collected resulting in a delay in processing.

                                     ***********CRITICAL MESSAGE**************

Effective February 1, 2007, all specimens for Microbiology testing received by CLS that are not clearly labeled with two patient identifiers will be rejected.

The specimen MUST be clearly labeled with the following information:

Patient’s full name (first name and last name) AND one of the following additional identifiers:

• Personal Health Number (PHN)
• Medical Record Number (MRN)
• Date of Birth (yyyy/mm/dd)

This change in policy is a requirement of our Accreditation by the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta. Please ensure your staff is aware of this required change in laboratory policy in order to minimize the impact on patient care.

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Also refer to: CLS Specimen Identification