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4. Packaging
Packaging must comply fully with UK postal regulations for clinical
specimens (UN 602/3373 regulations)
Specimens should be in an appropriate container, securely fastened and in a
clear, sealed plastic specimen bag. The accompanying request form should
be placed separately in the other pocket of the bag.
The outside of the package must be appropriately marked and clearly state:-
'PATHOLOGICAL SPECIMEN; FRAGILE – WITH CARE'
In those circumstances where specimens are unlabelled or inadequately
labelled and the patient’s identification is unclear, or if they have leaked or
are contaminated, they may be unsuitable for testing. In such instances the
requesting laboratory or doctor will always be informed immediately by
telephone to discuss the matter and to arrange for repeat specimens if
necessary.
As a reference laboratory we do appreciate that some specimens cannot be
repeated and every effort is made to avoid the need for repeat requests.
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