Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

2 mL or 3 full EDTA microcollection tubes whole blood

Add-on testing is not permitted. Specimen must be labeled with patient's first and last name, medical record number or some unique other identifier (e.g.,billing number, NOT date of birth). Date of collection and phlebotomist identification (full name or tech ID) must be available. Second samples are not required on patients less than 4 months of age. Newborn type and screens are valid until one of the following criteria is met: 1. Patient reaches 4 months of age 2. Patient is discharged.

Antibody-positive specimens will be worked up to the extent necessary to identify the antibody. Geisinger Health System workflow is to order type and screen followed by a prepare and transfuse order in Epic if blood products are needed.

Do not centrifuge or aliquot.

Preferred specimen: Room temperature (less than 24 hours). If greater than 24 hours, specimen must be stored and transported at 2-8° C.

3 days for testing.

Incorrect collection tube. Incomplete label ID (see collection notes).

Type and screen battery must be performed to provide compatible blood. "Type" includes ABO and Rh typing of the patient's red blood cells. "Screen" includes a red blood cell antibody screen, which can detect common clinically significant antibodies to red blood cells.