Unacceptable Specimens:

Unacceptable specimens are specimens that are not properly labeled and any further processing may compromise patient care. Issues pertaining to the patient’s full name, second identifier (DOB or MR#) and tissue source may lead to the specimen being deemed unacceptable. Unlabeled or discrepant specimens are not processed until written verification if received from the provider.  All discrepancies are documented so that a quality assurance report may be generated.

Sub-optimal Specimens:

Specimens received without fixative (formalin) or with incorrect fixative will be processed. Documentation will be noted both on the report and in the quality assurance report. 

Empty Containers 

Occasionally, Dahl-Chase Diagnostic Services receives empty vials from our clients.  A pathologist will verify these vials as empty.  The covers of the containers are also checked to be sure that a piece of tissue did not adhere to the lid. As soon as a container is confirmed to be empty, the client will be notified. The patients will not be charged for any empty containers received.