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On-site prepared slides must
be identified with the patient's name and medical record number written with
lead pencil on the frosted glass slide.
Immediate wet fixation is
absolutely essential for cytologic samples that are stained by the Papanicolaou
method. Even the slightest delay in fixation will cause air-drying, resulting
in poor cellular detail. Air-dried smears are good only for Giemsa or
Leishman stain. To order: spray fixative is available in Peoplesoft #167826. As soon as the smear
is prepared, spray fix the smear within two to three seconds. Hold the
spray bottle (non-aerosol) three to four inches away from the slide. Pump
three to four times or until the slide is flooded. Once the fixative on the smear
is dry, place the slide in a cardboard slide folder (damp/wet slides will adhere to holder and be unsatisfactory for evaluation).
Liquid specimens; e.g., washings, rinses, fine needle aspirates, etc.: Each specimen should
be placed in a separate container or tube with Saccomanno fixative (available
from the Cytopathology Laboratory, Detroit campus, (313) 916-2328). The
container/tube must be labeled with patient's name, medical record number, and
specimen description.
Fresh specimens: Prompt delivery
of fresh, unfixed material to the Cytopathology Laboratory is critical.
Leaving the specimens at room temperature will result in rapid deterioration
of cellular material. Refrigerate specimen if unable to deliver promptly. Such specimens are unsatisfactory for cytopathologic
evaluation.
Complete the Cytopathology
requisition form. The following information is required on the laboratory
requisition:
- Date specimen obtained
(so we can track the specimen)
- Patient's name (so we can
identify the patient)
- Medical record number (double
check on the patient identification)
- Submitting physician name
and doctor number (so you can get the report)
- Diagnostic code (so HFHS
can be reimbursed for this service)
- Specimen description
- Pertinent clinical history
- Additional copy to physician(s)
or secondary provider
Both specimen and laboratory
requisition must be delivered in biohazard specimen transport bag with specimen
placed in the sealed portion of the bag and the laboratory requisition in the
outside pocket.
Any questions regarding specimen collection, specimen preservation, or procurement supply orders, contact Cytopathology Laboratory at 313-916-2328. |
