Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs › Ordering Tests › Identifying Your Specimen

How do I label my specimens for testing?

Specimens must have two person-specific identifiers on the patient label affixed to the test tube. Person-specific identifiers include:

• Accession number
• Patient's first and last name
• Unique identifying number (medical record number, for example)
• Date of birth

Specimens are considered mislabeled when there is a mismatch between the person-specific identifiers on the specimen and the information accompanying the specimen (for example: computer system, requisition form, additional paperwork). When insufficient or inconsistent identification is submitted, a new specimen may be required, if feasible.

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