Sample Collection Protocols

Samples must be labelled correctly for acceptance in the laboratory. Improperly labelled samples will cause delays in processing and may require a recollection. 

Sample labelling criteria

Sample acceptance and rejection criteria

Guidelines for standard non-blood sample collection

Patient-collected samples

Collection containers are available from your local lab. Learn about sample collection information for samples collected by the patient.

Body fluids/CSF

Body fluid samples require strict collection and transportation criteria to maintain sample quality. 

• View the guidelines for body fluid sample collections
• View the guidelines for CSF collections

Bone marrow

Bone Marrow requests must follow clinical guidelines determined by an IH Pathologist or Specialist with expertise in Hematology.

Complete the Request for Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy Form. The request form is reviewed by a pathologist to ensure appropriate ancillary tests are ordered before an appointment is booked.

Review the resource for COVID-19 sample collection

Anatomical Pathology

Refer to the Department specific page for information about sample identification, collection and handling.

Microbiology

Refer to the Department specific page for information about sample identification, collection and handling.

Transfusion Medicine

Refer to the Department specific page for more information.

Blood samples must be delivered to the lab as soon as possible after collection and must be processed within two hours of collection. Blood samples that have not been centrifuged are transported at room temperature. Specimens arriving close to the two hour time limit may be rejected.

Samples must be packaged according to the Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG) legislation by trained personnel holding a valid TDG certificate. The individual shipping the sample is responsible for proper packaging and use of an approved shipping container (TDG certified for Category B specimens) to maintain sample integrity and prevent leaks or contamination during transport; protecting the public and environment from potential exposure to specimens.