Acceptance Criteria for Specimens/Test Requests

Sample Acceptance Criteria

SAMPLE
TYPE

MAJOR
STANDARD REQUIREMENTS
STANDARD CRITERIA SAMPLE SPECIFIC CRITERIA
General Laboratory  
  • Sample accompanied by test request(s) submitted in a format approved for use by Laboratory Services
  • Standard Requirements for requisition and labelling met
  • Request is legible
  • Requisition and sample labelling match
  • Sample labelled on the primary collection container
  • Appropriate sample for test requested*
  • Adequate sample quantity for test(s) requested*
  • Proper collection (timed procedures, hemolysis, contamination, container, tube)*
  • Proper fixation/preservation/neutralization*
  • Proper, timely transportation (packaging, temperature, storage)*
  • Does not pose a safety risk to laboratory personnel (e.g. leaking, broken containers, sharps)
 
Transfusion Medicine  
Pathology, Cytology, Microbiology Slides must be labelled using lead pencil or insoluble ink
Genetics Completed documentation for samples requiring pre-consultation / pre-counseling
Non-Clinical (Infection Control., Pharmaceutical, Animal, etc.)  
Environmental (Water, Ice, or Biological Indicator)  

*Refer to Guide to Laboratory Services for specific requirements