Cytopathology Specimen Labeling

Specimens Containers

All specimens for cytologic examination (e.g. LBC cervical/vaginal samples, washes, fluids, FNA’s in Cytolyt) must be labeled according to CLS requirements.

All specimen containers require:

  • Patient’s full first and last name and at least one unique identifier such as Unique Lifetime Identifier (ULI), Personal Health Number (PHN), Personal Identification Number (Federal, Military, RCMP, Refugee, Immigration, Passport), Facility Assigned Number (RHRN, MRN, ACB #, Clinic #, Chart #)
  • Specimen site. body site, collection method
  • Colposcopy containers require the exact specimen site orientation (e.g. 6 o'clock, 9 o'clock) 

The patient's full name and unique identifier on the specimen container must completely match the patient's full name and unique identifier on the requisition.

Direct Smears (Glass Slides)

It may be necessary to use glass slides for a non-gynecological cytological specimen examination.

All glass slides require:

  • Patient’s full first and last name and at least one unique identifier such as Unique Lifetime Identifier (ULI), Personal Health Number (PHN), Personal Identification Number (Federal, Military, RCMP, Refugee, Immigration, Passport), Facility Assigned Number (RHRN, MRN, ACB #, Clinic #, Chart #)
  • Specimen site. body site, collection method
  • Colposcopy containers require the exact specimen site orientation (e.g. 6 o'clock, 9 o'clock) 

Note: All glass slides must be labeled using lead pencil or insoluble ink.  The actual slide must be labeled, not the slide holder/mailer.  The labeled slide, when dry, must be placed into a  plastic or cardboard container with the completed Cytopathology requisition wrapped around it.

The patient's full name and unique identifier on the glass slide must completely match the patient's full name and unique identifier on the requisition.