GENERAL LABORATORY NOTES for POINT OF CARE TESTING

Patient Identification:
 Identification of the patient is crucial to insuring that the specimen is obtained from the correct individual.
 
 Check the addressograph label or the patient's ID card containing the patient identification against the patient's ID wristband.  The name, patient number and medical record number must match exactly.
 
 If performing the test at the bedside, the wristband must be checked prior to obtaining the patient specimen, to confirm correct ID.  Testing must be completed at the bedside.  The specimen must be correctly labeled if it is to leave the point of care testing site.
 
 Specimen collection and preservation:
 
 See the individual point of care procedures for details regarding specimen collection and preservation.  Collect the minimum amount of sample required for testing.
 
 Specimen labeling:

All specimens transported away from the bedside or point of care testing site for testing must be properly labeled with the patient's identification.  Addressograph labels must contain the patient's full name, medical record number, date, time of collection, and the initials of the person collecting the sample.  This applies to specimen containers, tubes, syringes and test cards.
 
 Specimen control:
 
 Testing personnel will follow UCSDMC Universal Precautions policies when handling and transporting specimens.