5.1 Specimen handling and storage

The accuracy, reliability and timely reporting of test results depend on having good quality samples as a starting point. Laboratories should therefore take proactive steps to ensure that samples received for testing meet their requirements and reject those samples that do not (Figure 7).

Described image
Figure 7 An example of a sample rejection form (WHO, 2015).
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An example of a sample rejection form. At the top is a space to fill in details of the patient and the sample. Below that is a checklist of reasons why the sample does not meet the criteria of a good specimen for the test(s) requested, along with a space to fill in further details, if required. Reasons include:

  • Sample was collected in improper container
  • Sample not properly sealed/was leaking
  • Sample was improperly labeled/Patient ID & date of collection was not clear
  • Sample material was inappropriate for the test(s) requested
  • Sample volume was inappropriate for the test(s) requested
  • Sample was not accompanied by a request form/sample could not be related to a request form
  • Patient name/date of collection on request form did not match the same details on the sample label
  • Other
Figure 7 An example of a sample rejection form (WHO, 2015).

Activity 9: Test request form

Timing: Allow 10 minutes

List the information you would expect to see on a test request form accompanying a sample sent to your workplace.

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Discussion

You may wish to compare the two example lists below with the test request form used in your workplace.

Public health

  • Patient ID and basic information such as sex, date of birth
  • Test requested
  • Date and time of sample collection
  • Date and time of sample receipt
  • Type of sample
  • Any clinically relevant information
  • Name and signature of the person who authorised the request
  • Contact details of person requesting the test

Animal health

  • Contact details of owner of animal and/or premises
  • Contact details of person requesting the test
  • Patient ID and basic information such as gender, age, animal species and breed, type of farm
  • Test requested
  • Suspected pathogen and tests requested
  • Date and time of sample collection
  • Date and time of sample receipt
  • Type of sample
  • Any relevant case history, clinically relevant information
  • Any relevant epidemiological information such as spread of infection to other animals, observations about husbandry practices

5 Examples of quality assurance for core processes

5.2 Antibiotic susceptibility testing