Specimen Collection and Requirements – Safety Aspects Ensuring Safety in Diagnostic Laboratories Presented by: Zia Ashraf
Introduction • Importance of safe specimen collection • Objective: To understand safe procedures, safety requirements, marking and labeling protocols, and PPE guidelines.
Safe Procedures for Specimen Collection from Homes • Home Collection Protocols - Prior communication with patient - Use of disposable equipment - Minimizing patient contact time • Transporting Specimens Safely - Use of sealed containers - Labeling and documentation - Immediate transport to the lab
Safe Procedures for Specimen Collection within the Laboratory • In-Lab Collection Protocols - Designated collection areas - Use of biosafety cabinets - Minimizing exposure to aerosols and splashes • Handling Specimens - Avoiding spills and breakages - Proper waste disposal
Essential Safety Requirements for Different Types of Specimens • Blood Samples - Use of safety-engineered needles - Avoiding recapping of needles • Urine and Stool Samples - Use of leak-proof containers - Immediate transfer to processing areas • Sputum and Respiratory Samples - Collection in well-ventilated areas - Use of closed systems for transport
Marking and Labeling Protocols • Importance of Accurate Labeling - Preventing misidentification - Ensuring traceability • Labeling Guidelines - Use of barcodes and unique identifiers - Clear indication of patient information and specimen type • Documentation - Accurate record-keeping - Chain of custody forms
Donning of PPE • PPE Components - Gloves, gowns, masks, face shields - Use of N95 respirators for high-risk procedures • Donning Procedure - Step-by-step guide to putting on PPE - Importance of proper fit and coverage
Doffing of PPE • Risk of Contamination - Areas to avoid touching - Sequence of removal to minimize exposure • Doffing Procedure - Step-by-step guide to removing PPE safely - Hand hygiene between steps
Conclusion • Summary of Key Points - Importance of safe collection procedures - Essential safety requirements - Proper marking, labeling, and PPE use • Q&A
References • List of references and sources for further reading.