Best Practices for Lab Specimen Storage: Temperature, Time Constraints, and Documentation

Written By Natalie Brooks, BS, CPT

Summary

  • Proper storage of lab specimens is crucial for maintaining their integrity and ensuring accurate results.
  • There are specific guidelines in place for the storage of different types of lab specimens, including temperature and time considerations.
  • Adhering to these guidelines is essential for patient safety and overall efficient hospital supply and equipment management.

Introduction

Proper storage of lab specimens is essential in maintaining the integrity of the samples and ensuring accurate Test Results. In a hospital setting, efficient supply and equipment management play a vital role in maintaining the quality and safety of these specimens. There are specific guidelines in place for the storage of lab specimens that must be followed to guarantee the reliability of Test Results and patient safety.

Guidelines for Lab Specimen Storage

Temperature Control

One of the most critical factors to consider when storing lab specimens is temperature control. Different types of specimens require specific temperature ranges to maintain their integrity. Here are some guidelines for temperature control when storing lab specimens:

  1. Refrigeration: Certain specimens, such as blood samples and urine cultures, need to be stored in a refrigerator at temperatures between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius to prevent degradation.
  2. Freezing: Some specimens, like DNA and RNA samples, require freezing at temperatures below -20 degrees Celsius to maintain stability.
  3. Ambient Temperature: Specimens that do not require refrigeration or freezing should be stored at room temperature, typically between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Time Constraints

In addition to temperature control, time constraints are another crucial factor to consider when storing lab specimens. Specimens should be processed and stored within a specific timeframe to ensure accurate Test Results. Here are some guidelines for time constraints when storing lab specimens:

  1. Urgent Specimens: Some specimens, such as blood cultures and arterial blood gases, require immediate processing and should be stored accordingly to prevent bacterial contamination or sample deterioration.
  2. Routine Specimens: Most routine specimens, like urine samples and swabs, can be stored for a certain period at the appropriate temperature before processing without compromising Test Results.
  3. Timely Transport: Specimens that need to be transported to a reference lab for further testing should be shipped within the specified timeframe to prevent sample degradation.

Labeling and Documentation

Proper labeling and documentation of lab specimens are essential for tracking and maintaining the integrity of the samples. Here are some guidelines for labeling and documentation when storing lab specimens:

  1. Identifying Information: Each specimen should be labeled with the patient's name, date of collection, type of specimen, and any other relevant information to ensure proper identification.
  2. Chain of Custody: Specimens should be documented throughout the storage and processing process to establish a chain of custody and ensure traceability.
  3. Storage Location: Specimens should be stored in designated areas with clear labeling to prevent mix-ups and ensure easy retrieval when needed.

Conclusion

Adhering to the guidelines for lab specimen storage is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the samples, ensuring accurate Test Results, and ultimately, patient safety. Hospital supply and equipment management play a significant role in enforcing these guidelines and maintaining the quality of lab specimens. By following temperature control, time constraints, labeling, and documentation guidelines, hospitals can guarantee the reliability of their lab testing processes and provide the highest level of care to their patients.

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Natalie Brooks, BS, CPT

Natalie Brooks is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Florida. With 8 years of experience working in both clinical and research settings, Natalie has become highly skilled in blood collection techniques, particularly in high-volume environments. She is committed to ensuring that blood draws are conducted with the utmost care and precision, contributing to better patient outcomes.

Natalie frequently writes about the latest advancements in phlebotomy tools, strategies for improving blood collection efficiency, and tips for phlebotomists on dealing with difficult draws. Passionate about sharing her expertise, she also mentors new phlebotomists, helping them navigate the challenges of the field and promoting best practices for patient comfort and safety.

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