Calgary Specimen Transport

Specimen Packaging and Transportation

Package Microbiology, Cytology and Anatomic Pathology specimens into individual 6" x 9" pouch bags. Please use one requisition per patient and place it in the bag's outside pouch.

Place multiple Microbiology samples collected from one patient (e.g. a cervical swab and vaginal swab but NOT including Cytology and /or Anatomical Pathology samples), together into one 6" x 9" bag.

DO NOT roll specimen in the requisition or attach specimen to the requisition using tape, elastics, staples or patient demographic labels. See Specimen Packaging Instructions for pictures of correct specimen packing.

Place all bagged samples, racks, etc. into a large resealable bag.

Please follow established procedures for transport to the lab. Calgary Laboratory Services couriers will pick up as per the current schedule.

The couriers are also provided with spare STBs, which they use for pick-up of specimens from physician offices or clinics. To provide safe handling, these specimens should be placed inside a resealable plastic bag (preferably a two pocket specimen bag) prior to pick-up by the courier.

Refrigerated Specimens

Keep specimens refrigerated before forwarding, unless otherwise indicated. When ready to forward, enclose ice pack to assist in maintaining temperature. Ensure specimen container is not in direct contact with ice pack so specimen does not freeze.

Frozen Specimens from Calgary Lab Sites

DO NOT freeze specimens at the collection site on weekdays, unless otherwise noted. Transport to the DSC as soon as possible; store specimen in refrigerator until courier pick-up. Clearly mark "FREEZE" on the specimen container to ensure it is frozen upon receipt at DSC. For transport, secure specimen between two ice packs in order to maintain refrigerated conditions during transport.

DO NOT transport to DSC on weekends or on statutory holidays; keep frozen at the collection site until first regular working day. Clearly mark "FREEZE" on the specimen container. For transport, pack in dry ice if possible, or secure specimen between two ice packs in order to maintain frozen state during transport. Use plastic containers when sending frozen specimens. Never fill more than three-quarters full to avoid tube breaking or caps popping during freezing.