Errors in Collection
| Specimen Errors | Collector Errors |
|---|---|
| Insufficient volume | Transport delay |
| Improper type | Improper collection method; using syringe for collection |
| Insufficient number of samples | Wrong specimen container |
| Combining two partially filled tubes | Traumatic venipuncture or excessive repositioning with needle |
| Wrong transport medium or wrong or absent preservative | Incorrect documentation; wrong date or time |
| Storage at incorrect temperature | Incorrect storage |
| Incorrect order of draw | Air bubbles in tube |
| Improper centrifugation time | Unlabeled or mislabeled specimen or wrong patient identification information |
| Clotted sample | Improperly completed forms or computer data entry |
| Hemolyzed sample | Test tapes cut in half |
| Diluted sample; collecting above or below an IV | Discrepancies between test ordered and specimen collected Failure to properly transcribe and process orders |
Observing institutional protocols can prevent mishaps. Large-scale (affecting many patients) testing errors can result from improperly maintained or calibrated equipment at the site of sample analysis. There should be policies/procedures in place to address specimen, collection, and large-scale errors to include who should be notified and remedial action.