Specimen Requirements

1. Prepare Patient for collection per protocol necessary.
2. Communicate with Pathology on any special timing for collection or special handling.

Routine specimens for Pathology, NOT requiring cytogenetics or a frozen section:  

• Submit specimen in 10% neutral buffered formalin.  The container lid must be securely tightened to prevent leakage and must be transported in a Bio-Hazard bag.

1. Label the specimen container with EPIC patient label and EPIC collection process completed.

• Include appropriate clinical/diagnostic information with the specimen order.

1. A similarly completed Pathology requisition form must accompany the specimen for Non-Ridgeview customers.

1. Transport the specimen directly to Pathology and follow the Specimen receiving process in the Lab.

Frozen Section specimens or specimens requiring Cytogenetics:  submit specimen in sterile saline.   

1. The container lid must be securely tightened to prevent leakage.
2. Label the specimen container with EPIC patient label and EPIC collection process completed.

• Include appropriate clinical/diagnostic information with the specimen order.

1. For specimens requiring Cytogenetics, also include a completed HCMC requisition form, and a copy of the patient face sheet.
2. Please call the Ridgeview Histology lab, STAT at 952-442-2191 ext. 35876, or the RMC laboratory at ext. 36010, to let them know a specimen is coming. 
3.  Deliver the specimen to RMC hospital lab immediately.  If off-site, call courier for STAT pick-up and delivery to RMC hospital lab.
4. When possible, inform the RMC Pathology/Histology Lab in advance of a frozen section or cytogenetics specimen.