YNHH Laboratory Manual

Blood, urine, body fluids, and fecal specimens may harbor a variety of pathogens. Hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus are of greatest concern; however, many other infectious agents may also be spread through contact with specimens submitted to the laboratory. For the safety of all who handle these specimens, and in compliance with federal guidelines, we cannot accept specimens that are leaking or that have the outside of the specimen container or the accompanying requisition contaminated. No specimen is to be submitted in a syringe, with or without an attached needle, except for blood gases submitted in a syringe with a safety closure. Specimens must be transported to the laboratory in a [sealed] biohazard plastic bag. Specimens "tubed" to the laboratory must be in a sealed biohazard bag, be cushioned with [foam], and be in a completely closed carrier.

Updated: July-2008