CSF and Body Fluid Identification & Labeling

Each tube submitted must be labelled with:

  • patient's full  first name and last name AND a unique identifier
  • tube identification number (1,2,3 etc.)  indicating order of collection
  • date and time of collection
  • source of collection

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tests are usually considered to be STAT procedures as the constituents are unstable. Because of this, all body fluids, especially CSF, must be taken to the laboratory immediately after collection and handed directly (not left on a counter) to laboratory personnel.

Refer to CSF Collection Guidelines and Body Fluid Collection Guidelines.