We stipulate in our POCT policy that three points of ID must accompany the sample. This may take the form of an addressograph label stuck to the syringe or collection device/receptacle. If the analysis is being performed by the person who obtained the sample, then the patient notes should accompany the sample if it is not able to be labelled i.e. capillary tubes.
If the sample changes hands during the process, the sample must be labelled to avoid errors in patient identification. We enforce this in our training and competency package, publicise it in a quarterly newsletter, and observe staff activities during site audits.
I hope this helps.
Tony Cambridge
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