Specimen Processing and Handling PTC Qs&As 2024 A+ Review

Specimen Processing and Handling PTC Qs&As 2024 A+ Review Labeling - All specimens should be properly labeled according to standard guidelines Packaging of all specimens - Should be appropriately packaged in leak proof containers Centrifuging tubes in a centrfuge - Spins the specimen to separate the contents based on density, with less dense components, such as plasma or serum forming the top layers Aliquoting for specimens needing to go to various labs - Aliquots are transferred into separate containers before transport Types of Point of Care testing (POCT) - Urinalysis; Hemoglobin; Hematocrit; Coagulation; Chemistry panels;Glucose; Pregnancy; ECG or EKG; RSV; Influenza A and B; Group A Streptococcus; H.Pylori and EBV When performing point of care (POC) procedures - it is important to know normal range values for the specific test being performed. Results that are significantly too high or too low compared to this range should be documented and reported to the nurse or physician immediately. Report results and critical values for point of care procedures - Results that are significantly too high or too low compared to this range should be documented and reported to the nurse or physician immediately Deliver specimens to the laboratory appropriately - Generally, specimens should be delivered to the lab within 45 minutes of collections; some specimens can be held for 24-48 hours Protection From Light - Some specimens contain light-sensitive analytes, such as bilirubin, vitamin B₁₂, and folate, among others. These specimens must be collected in amber-colored tubes and are often wrapped in aluminum foil to prevent analytes break down from light exposure.