Tests available, sample collection techniques and referral laboratories

Our laboratory test catalogue provides a list of tests, specimens container, sample storage and turnaround times.

Specimen collection

When requesting a pathology test, please consider:

  • Has the need for the request has been established, is in the patient’s best interest and that the patient has given consent in line with trust policy.
  • Is Pathology is able to undertake the test (if in doubt refer to Pathology test catalogue).
  • Is the patient is aware of any specific requirements for the test, such as fasting (if in doubt refer to Pathology test catalogue).
  • If sample collection is not occurring immediately is the method of collection is organised and is the patient aware of actions they need to take e.g. booking a phlebotomy appointment.

When collecting a specimen, please ensure:

  • The patient’s identify is confirmed and matches the request form (electronic or paper).
  • Confirm the patient meets applicable specific requirements for the test e.g. fasting (if in doubt refer to Pathology test catalogue).
  • Only trained or those under appropriate supervision collect the specimen from the patient.
  • Appropriate quantity of specimen is obtained and placed in the appropriate container (if in doubt, refer to Pathology test catalogue).
  • All consumables used are within expiry date.
  • Containers are labelled in line with specimen acceptance criteria.
  • All sharps are disposed of in line with health and safety processes.
  • The specimen is placed in the agreed method for transportation; while these are awaiting transport, they must not be placed where patient confidentiality may be compromised, in direct sunlight or near heaters to ensure specimen integrity.

Certain tests have specific transport requirements e.g. on ice/within 10 minutes of collection to remain suitable for analysis by the laboratory. This must be considered before taking the specimen so this criteria can be met (if in doubt refer to Pathology test catalogue).

Patient consent for diagnostic tests

The department relies on the requesting clinician to meet the requirements for patient consen. 

Clinicians are responsible for gaining consent from patients for the provision of a sample to enable diagnostic testing, in line with guidance:

Patients can give consent orally or in writing, or they may imply consent by complying with the proposed examination or treatment, for example, by rolling up their sleeve to have their blood sample taken.

For the laboratory, the request form and the provision of a sample provides evidence of consent received from the patient.

Initial consent conversations may not detail each specific test that will be required to aid diagnosis. The nature of laboratory testing can mean ‘reflex’ testing is carried out as part of the diagnostic pathway. 

This is testing to further narrow down or clarify a result, and is triggered from the outcome of the initial result. Reflex testing is part of the testing pathway and does not require additional consent.

There are a small number of tests requiring very specific consent, as a patient may require additional support or counselling regarding the outcome. Where this is the case, the laboratory will always check consent specific to these tests has been given.