Specimen Collection, Packaging & Transport

General Specimen Preparation

• Ensure the correct collection containers are used and an adequate amount of specimens is collected.
• Do not use expired collection containers or transport media for specimen collection.
• Ensure all tubes, containers, and request forms are properly labelled with at least 2 identifiers.
• All tubes and containers must be tightly and properly capped to prevent spillage and contamination.
• Blood urine specimens for glucose (except in fluoride tube), electrolytes, calcium, phosphate, bicarbonate, CPK, LDH, SGOT, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), PT/PTT, and urine FEME cannot be kept overnight.
• Please refer to the Specimen Collection Guidelines section of our Service Catalogue for a thorough explanation of the appropriate procedures for collecting all types of specimens.

Request Forms

A request form with relevant patient data must accompany each specimen. Mandatory information on the request form includes:

• Name & Complete NRIC/FIN or Passport Number
• Nationality
• Date of Birth & Gender
• Name of Clinic & Ordering Doctor
• Type of Specimen
• Test(s) Required
• Date & Time of Collection
• Other Relevant Information (e.g., fasting / medication)

Specimen Packaging

• Use one zip-lock plastic bag for one patient.
• Multiple specimens per patient can be put in a bigger bag after using separate small bags for the urine or stool specimens.
• Ensure the specimen containers are tightly capped and properly labelled (at least 2 identifiers).
• Seal the bag properly at the top using the zip or staple.
• Staple the completed request form onto the top of the bag above the sealer.
  Note: Do not put the request form into the bag.

Specimen Collection

To enquire or make a request for specimen collection, please call 6742 9011.

Collection Hours

Rejection Policy

Pathlab reserves the right to reject suboptimal specimens if they are assessed to be unacceptable for testing, such as but not limited to:

• Unlabelled specimen
• Contaminated specimen
• Incorrectly labelled specimen
• Insufficient sample volume
• Incorrect collection container used
• Broken/leaking container