Preparation of samples 2

Preparation of specimens for investigation

Evidence 1: Using bullet points, describe the steps you would take for processing as sample prior to testing (for any 2 example specimens / sample / test types):

It is assumed that all patient and sample demographics have been checked and are correct.

1. Sample / Test requiring preparation: e.g. PTH

Label sample, request form and ‘send away’ tube with unique sample barcode.
Centrifuge samples for 10 minutes at 300rpm to separate the plasma.
Aliquot plasma off the blood sample into the ‘send away’ tube as ensure lid is secure.
Sample is then to be placed into the specific rack into the freezer.
Data enter the request form using the unique barcode and requisition number found on the request form
Scan form using Omni-scan – this ensures an electronic copy of the request form is available for viewing at a later date.

Sample 1 test name: ______________________

Preparation steps prior to analysis:

Step 1:
Step 2:
Step 3:
Step 4:
Step ...
Step ...

Sample 2 test name: ______________________

Preparation steps prior to analysis:

Step 1:
Step 2:
Step 3:
Step 4:
Step ...
Step ...

Evidence 2: For any one of the test examples described above briefly discuss why each point listed is important and how it could impact on the final result if carried out incorrectly.

2. Sample test name:

Step 1: Provide a brief description of how this would affect sample testing:
Step 2: Provide a brief description of how this would affect sample testing:
Step 3: Provide a brief description of how this would affect sample testing:
Step 4: Provide a brief description of how this would affect sample testing:
Step 5 ...

Evidence 3: For this piece of evidence you will need to consider the following factors when you have a large number of samples to process.

Write a brief paragraph on each of the following factors you may need to consider:

3. Factors:

Urgency / priority of tests
Staff / support numbers
Shift when samples received (e.g. night, Back or day)
Other wok load commitments
Time
Supplies / consumables available (e.g. aliquots, secondary containers etc.)
Equipment (e.g. scanners, centrifuge etc.)
Work flow order /management
Administration (work sheets, SOPs, booking in etc.)
Secondary checks (if applicable)

Can you think of any more factors you would need to consider when you have a large number of samples to process?

Sign off: After you have collected each piece of evidence, hand them into your trainer / mentor who will then countersign them. Please note that they may ask for additional evidence or ask you follow up questions. Also ensure that:

You have date and signed your work
You only submit evidence for checking once it is completed (you may take individual evidence pieces out of your portfolio)
Ensure any countersigned checked work is returned back (in order) to your portfolio

Try not to hand in multiple pieces of evidence for marking at once - this will create too much work for your trainer / mentor, instead spread submissions out throughout your training.

Trainer notes: Ensure the candidates line manager completes the 'Line Manager's Comments' section as each module in the portfolio is completed - continuous assessment of the candidates work is required throughout the training period.