Guidelines on sample identification:
Each receptacle must carry the patient's identification. To support physicians, we offer the option of working with a unique barcode system per application
These barcode sheets are distributed in packets of 100 sheets and can be requested on the material physicians order list (same procedure as for the blood and urine samples).
Use 1 barcode sheet per application, with 1 barcode pasted on the application form and the other required barcodes on the receptacles. The remaining barcodes are put in the plastic bag together with the application form and the receptacles.
The sub-numbering of the receptacles must match that on the application form.
Receptacles should be sealed tightly.
If plastic shipping bags are used, do not place the application with the sample itself, but use the separate pocket in the bag.
General guidelines for collecting materials:
Tissues and fluids are transported in a sealed receptacle after collection.
Small, prefilled receptacles are available through the Pathology Lab. An expiration date is indicated on receptacles containing formol. Do not use expired fixative. Expired receptacles may be returned to the lab.
All tissues for routine histological examination should be fixed in 4% buffered formol immediately after collection in order to minimize the time between collection and fixation and to optimize tissue evaluation and additional staining and molecular testing.
Guidelines for urgent samples:
For an urgent sample, "urgent" should be checked on the application form, along with the phone number of the clinician to be contacted.
Storage conditions:
Fixed samples can be stored at room temperature.