Instructions for Collection and Transport

Specimen is collected by physician and labeled with 2 patient identifiers and site identifying words. Do not add fixative to specimen. If more than one site is sampled, site specific identifying words must be present on appropriate specimen containers. Cytology Epic order must include the following information: collection date and time, source of specimen, patient’s clinical findings, prior treatment, and pertinent previous biopsy results. If GMS or special stains are also requested, it must be clearly specified on the Cytology order. Use a clean, labeled, leakproof container for transport. Internal specimens should be transported to Cytology or CSR Laboratory immediately. Remote specimens should be transported refrigerated on freezer packs. Specimen should reach Main Campus Laboratory within 12 hours for optimum preparation.