Specimen Collection

Overview

Testing may be delayed or not performed if specimens are improperly prepared or required information is incomplete.

Checklist

Before Collection

Review the requisition to confirm the correct specimen type is collected for the requested test(s).

Specimen Handling

Ensure all tube caps or closures are securely tightened to prevent leakage.
For tubes with non-screw caps, secure closures with Parafilm or an equivalent seal.
Provide one aliquot per test requested.

Labeling Requirements

Label each specimen tube with at least two unique patient identifiers, such as:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Unique patient identifier (e.g., PHN, ULI, MRN, or other system-specific ID)

Required Documentation
All specimens must be accompanied by an Eve Diagnostics requisition that includes:

Patient full name
Patient date of birth
Unique patient identifier
Specimen type
Collection date and time
Reason for testing and relevant medications
Referring laboratory contact information (including fax number and email address)
Test(s) requested

Specimen Types

Plasma

Preferred specimen type for all tests.

Draw blood and collect into an appropriate anticoagulant treated tubes (Lavender/Purple BD Vacutainer® tube for plasma (EDTA)). Note: Heparin is not recommended as an anti-coagulant as this causes an interference in assay performance.
Gently invert the tube to mix.
Centrifuge at 1000 x g for 10 min (preferably at 4°C) within 30 minutes of blood collection.
Repeat centrifuging if necessary to separate the plasma from the cellular components.
Aliquot 0.5 mL to 1 mL of plasma immediately into a pyrogen/endotoxin-free polypropylene tube. The aliquot should be drawn from the middle of the sample volume. Avoid transferring any cellular debris or red blood cells.
Freeze plasma immediately.
Avoid using hemolyzed or lipemic plasma.

Serum

Serum is not accepted for all tests. Review test requirements before collection.

Draw blood and collect in a Gold or Red BD Vacutainer® tube for serum collection.
Allow blood to clot at room temperature for 30 min or more.
After clotting, centrifuge at 1000 x g for 10 min (preferably at 4°C).
Aliquot serum immediately while avoiding red blood cells/blood clot.
Freeze serum immediately.
Avoid using hemolyzed or lipemic serum.

CSF

CSF is not accepted for all tests. Review test requirements before collection.