Cellular Pathology: Transport to the laboratory

Instructions for the transportation of Histopathology samples

Small biopsy pots (universals, 60ml) should be placed into a small, clear plastic bag with absorbent sheet, usually attached with the request form and sealed.

If the form does not have a bag attached, please use the clear bags provided at the clinic.

The request form should never be placed inside the bag with the specimens in case of leakage.

The form must be attached to the sample using tape, please do not use pins or staples as this is hazardous.

Larger specimens should be placed into the snap-top white plastic bucket supplied by theatres, clinics or our department. The bucket should then be placed inside a plastic bag and request form attached using tape. Never use yellow clinical waste bags as these can be mistaken for waste.

Instructions for the transportation of Diagnostic Cytology samples.

Sample pot lids and slide boxes must be secured properly and checked to ensure no leakage or that slides cannot fall out.

The sample container(s)/slide boxes must be placed in a clear plastic transport bag, and sealed properly, with the accompanying request placed in the side pocket. Forms should not be stapled to the bag or placed with the samples

Collection and Deliveries

The Trust portering service is instructed not to collect pots which are damaged or leaking.

The Trust portering service will place all samples into a rigid container which prevents any patient identifiable data from being seen by members of the public and is compliant with UN3373 regulations.

There are collection points for specimens in theatres, wards and clinics. It is important that specimens are left in these designated areas. Please place specimens at collection points as soon as possible, to avoid batching and delay in reaching the laboratory.

If a specimen is received at the laboratory but is not clearly identifiable, (e.g. the pot is not labelled, or its label does not correspond to the accompanying request form), it will not be processed. Laboratory staff will contact the requesting clinician to identify the specimen and correct the detail.

Diagnostic Cytology samples that do not reach the laboratory within working hours or have missed the last collection must be stored in the refrigerator at 4°C.

Cellular Pathology samples must not be put in the Pneumatic Tube System (PTS) at UCLH under any circumstances. For further information please refer to UCLH Trust Guidance.

Cellular Pathology samples must not be put in the Pneumatic Tube System (PTS) under any circumstances. For further information please refer to Trust Guidance.

If a specimen is received at the laboratory but is not clearly identifiable, (e.g. the pot is not labelled, or its label does not correspond to the accompanying request form), it will not be processed. Laboratory staff will contact the requesting clinician to identify the specimen and correct the detail.

Cytology samples that do not reach the laboratory within working hours or have missed the last collection must be stored in the refrigerator at 4–8°C.

At the Eastman Dental Hospital, specimens should be taken to the reception desk where they will be collected by courier.