Specimen Requirements

Acceptable Specimens:Scrapings, brushings, Tzank smears, thyroid, breast discharge fluid, and other aspirate smears Container/Tube:Glass slides in slide transport containerSpecimen Volume:SlidesCollection Instructions:1. Using a lead pencil, write patient’s name and source of specimen on frosted end of glass slides.>2. Place 2 to 3 drops of fluid on glass slide>3. Place another glass slide upside-down on top.>4. Allow fluid to spread and gently pull slides apart endways.>5.Immediately fix slides with cytology spray (spray 8-10 inches away from slides). Allow slides to dry then place in slide transport container, or place slides in slide container with 95% ethanol.6.Label slide holder with patient’s name, date of collection, physician’s name, hospital identification number (if applicable), and source of specimen.Additional Information:1. Immediately bring specimen to Pathology (open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m.-4 p.m.). On weekends or during off hours, leave request form and specimen in specimen basket on laboratory processing counter. Flip light switch to notify laboratory personnel.2. The following specimen will be returned to submitting physician:A. No request formB. Name on request form does not match name on specimenC. Broken slidesD. Unlabeled specimenE. Specimen improperly collectedForms: Pathology requisition; or place a Pathology order in order entry including patient’s name, date of birth, date of collection, physician’s name, hospital identification number (in- or out-patient) or address, specimen source, and pertinent clinical history