Technical & Operational Procedures for
Remote Specimen Collection
Purpose
To ensure proper collection, handling, storage, and transportation of specimens from remote
locations to maintain specimen integrity and accurate laboratory analysis.
Scope
Applicable to all personnel involved in specimen collection, handling, and transportation for
remote laboratory services.
1. Pre-Collection Preparations
1.1 Personnel Requirements
Trained laboratory staff or authorized collectors.
Proper certification in handling biological specimens.
Compliance with biosafety protocols and ethical guidelines.
1.2 Required Equipment & Materials
Specimen collection materials (blood collection tubes, urine containers, syringe, cotton ,).
Personal protective equipment (PPE) (gloves, masks, face shields, etc.).
Preservatives and transport mediums (if required).
Secure, leak-proof transport containers.
Cold chain storage (coolers, ice packs, or temperature-controlled boxes).
Identification labels, requisition forms, and barcoding system (if possible).
2. Specimen Collection Procedures
2.1 General Collection Guidelines
Ensure proper patient identification and consent.
Follow standard aseptic techniques for specimen collection.
Label specimens immediately with patient details, collection date, and type.
Record environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) if relevant.
Ensure proper documentation for tracking and compliance.
2.2 Specific Collection Guidelines
Blood Collection
Use sterile techniques and correct anticoagulants if necessary.
Store in appropriate temperature conditions until transported.
Urine Collection
Utilize sterile containers and preserve if necessary.
Ensure proper sealing to avoid leaks.
Swab or Tissue Samples
Collect using appropriate sterile swabs.
Use transport media for specific microbiological specimens.
Other Biological Specimens
Follow established protocols for less common specimens such as cerebrospinal fluid,
feces, or biopsy samples.
3. Specimen Handling & Storage
3.1 Labeling & Documentation
Ensure each specimen is clearly labeled with patient ID, type, and collection date.
Attach requisition forms for laboratory processing.
3.2 Storage Conditions
Blood samples: Maintain temperature at 2-8°C if refrigerated.
Urine samples: Refrigerate/ put inside the container with icepacks if transport is delayed
Dry samples: Ensure moisture-free storage conditions.
3.3 Security & Safety Measures
All specimens must be stored in leak-proof secondary containers during handling.
Biohazard labels must be affixed to all containers.
Specimens must be tracked via a worksheet, inventory log or barcode system.
4. Specimen Transportation Procedures
4.1 Transport Container Requirements
Use rigid, leak-proof containers with secondary packaging.
Maintain temperature control using ice packs or coolers if needed.
Ensure proper cushioning to prevent damage during transport.
Apply biohazard labels for high-risk specimens.
4.2 Remote Transport Modes
Land Transport: Specialized medical transport vehicles with specimen storage
compartments/ containers
4.3 Chain of Custody & Documentation
Ensure a specimen log is completed before transport.
Utilize tracking systems by worksheets or if possible digital logs.
Sign-off upon delivery to the receiving laboratory.
4.4 Emergency Protocols
Spillage Response: Immediate containment using spill kits, followed by proper disposal.
Temperature Excursion: Apply corrective measures, such as replacing ice packs or
notifying the lab for contingency processing.
Transport Delays: Notify laboratory and ensure appropriate preservation methods.
5. Quality Assurance & Compliance
5.1 Monitoring & Evaluation
Conduct periodic audits of collection and transportation practices.
Ensure staff training in handling protocols and emergency response procedures.
Maintain compliance with biosafety and health regulations (WHO, CDC, local health
authorities).
5.2 Record-Keeping & Reporting
Maintain detailed records of specimen collection, handling, and transportation logs.
Periodic review of transport efficiency and specimen integrity assessments.
Address quality control discrepancies and corrective actions.
6. Conclusion
These procedures ensure the integrity of specimens collected from remote sites, guaranteeing
accuracy, safety, and compliance with laboratory standards. By maintaining proper handling
and transport protocols, the laboratory can effectively process specimens for timely and reliable
diagnosis.
