lesson 13

• Sample Reception Area

  The flow of work in the laboratory usually starts in this area where blood and other non-blood specimens are received
• Laboratory Receptionist


  • Processes the receipt, identification, and preparation of samples and requests entering the medical laboratory
  • Maintains an accurate log (using a specimen tracker system) after identification, preparation, and dispatch to the proper laboratory section
  • Advises and alerts the appropriate laboratory section about urgent samples, frozen samples, and samples that require special handling
  • Is knowledgeable in handling the laboratory computer system and confidently uses test libraries, intranet, and referral data during data entry
  • Takes care of the scanning, filing, and archiving of laboratory request forms and other pertinent documents and records
  • Handles incoming calls and uses the features of the telephone system in holding and transferring calls to the different sections and offices of the laboratory
  • Keeps himself/herself updated on the current trends related to the performance of his/her duties
  • Maintains the level of service and professionalism by ensuring the completeness and timeliness of all procedures through regular documentation
  • Attends to and handles queries about the samples and requests in a timely and professional manner
  • Acquires knowledge on how to operate the pieces of equipment that are used in the laboratory reception area
• Laboratory Request Form (LRF)


  A document that serves as a communication link not only to the requesting physicians but also to the other users of laboratory services
• Sections of the Laboratory Request Form

  • Name of the form includes the name of the laboratory and receiving date of the specimen being handled
  • Patient details include the patient's personal information such as name, address, telephone number, date of birth, and gender
  • Requester details contain the information about the person/company he/she represents, and the contact details such as the name, address and phone number
  • Sample details provide information about the specimen being handled, including the date and time when the sample was taken, its urgency, if it involved fasting, as well as the specific type of specimen provided
  • Relevant clinical information shows other relevant details such as drug therapy, the last dose including the date and time, and other pertinent clinical information
  • Examination requested shows a list of possible tests that could be conducted or provided, including cervical cytology request and additional tests
  • Date and Signature of the Requester
• Computer Systems in the Sample Reception Area

  Adopting a laboratory computer system will improve the efficiency of the sample reception area because it will provide easy and fast access to almost error-free information and ensure that reports generated are accurate and provided in a timely manner. It also provides control and oversight on the procedures performed in the laboratory.
• Procedures in the Sample Reception Area

  1. The integrity of the sample must be checked before acceptance or rejection

  2. Samples introduced in the register should be properly labeled to ensure traceability

  3. The laboratory request should be reviewed by authorized personnel

  4. There should be a procedure in place for handling special cases such as urgent samples or verbal requests

  5. Regular review of the required sample volume per test which may have changed over time

  6. Proper procedure for a sample rejection
• Laboratory Sample Receipt/Tracking Log Book

  A register or log book where the laboratory logs or records all incoming samples. It includes information such as collection date and time, receipt date and time, type of sample, name of the patient and other personal information, and tests requested to be performed.