If a lab specimen were delivered to you without proper labels and identification, what would your response be?
Because of safety issues and the risks of misdiagnosis, laboratories have policies in place regarding how specimens should be labeled and handled. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of addressing mislabeled or unlabeled specimens in the appropriate manner. If you have experienced a similar incident, it is OK to share this with the interviewer as long as patient confidentiality is not compromised.
"One of the first things we learn when being trained to work in a lab is that all specimens should be properly labeled with specific information. If a specimen is delivered to me and is not labeled properly, I would notify the delivering staff that there is missing documentation. If the error can be corrected and proper labeling secured, I can perform the ordered test. If the error is not one that can be corrected immediately, the test cannot be performed and a new specimen must be collected and proper identification/labeling attached. Labeling precautions are part of ensuring that the correct test results are associated with the patient for whom it was ordered and to help prevent misdiagnosis."
"While I haven't yet experienced an incident like this, I know that specific policies are in place in each organization that outline how specimens should be labeled when collected. If an improperly labeled or unlabeled specimen were delivered to me, I would follow the protocols within the department to ensure that the correct steps are taken to prevent error."
"In my years as a lab tech, I have worked in facilities that have varying policies relating to improper identification of a sample. While the processes for rejecting a sample may differ between facilities, most facilities require that the mislabeled/unlabeled specimen be discarded and a new specimen be obtained. Although I understand the frustration that a patient may feel because of having to submit a new specimen or having to undergo an additional venipuncture, the risks associated with testing an improperly labeled specimen can be profound. In the event that a situation like this occurs, I explain to the patient that a new specimen needs to be collected so that we can properly label and test the specimen, as per the doctor's orders."
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Anonymous Answer
I would inform the patient, physician or nurse that we would need to obtain a redraw or new specimen. It's irresponsible to run tests on this sample given the fact that there's a possibility that the results may not come back to the right person, leading to a misdiagnosis.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your answer is very clear and shows that you have a full understanding of best practices.
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