Preserving and Stabilizing Sensitive Specimens in a Medical Laboratory: Containers and Solutions in the United States

Summary

• Preserving and stabilizing sensitive specimens in a medical laboratory setting is crucial for accurate Test Results.
• Common containers used for preserving specimens include tubes, bottles, and jars made of plastic or glass.
• Preservation solutions like formalin, alcohol, and EDTA are commonly used to stabilize specimens for various tests in the United States.

Introduction

Preserving and stabilizing sensitive specimens in a medical laboratory setting is essential for accurate Test Results. By using the appropriate containers and preservation solutions, lab technicians can ensure that samples remain viable and reliable for analysis. In the United States, there are specific standards and guidelines in place regarding the types of containers and preservation solutions that should be used for different types of specimens. In this blog post, we will discuss the containers and preservation solutions typically used in medical laboratories for preserving and stabilizing sensitive specimens.

Containers for Specimen Preservation

When it comes to preserving sensitive specimens in a medical laboratory, the type of container used is crucial. Here are some common containers used for preserving specimens in the United States:

1. Tubes

1. Plastic tubes: These are commonly used for storing blood samples, urine samples, and other liquid specimens. Plastic tubes are lightweight, durable, and conveniently sized for storage.
2. Glass tubes: Glass tubes are preferred for certain tests that require protection from plastic leaching. These tubes are more fragile than plastic tubes but are useful for specific tests.

2. Bottles

1. Plastic bottles: Plastic bottles are used for larger liquid specimens or specimens that require more volume for testing. They are available in various sizes to accommodate different sample quantities.
2. Glass bottles: Glass bottles are used for preserving certain types of specimens that may react with plastic materials. They provide a stable and inert container for sensitive samples.

3. Jars

1. Plastic jars: Plastic jars are commonly used for preserving solid specimens, such as tissue samples or fecal samples. They are available in different sizes and shapes to suit various sample types.
2. Glass jars: Glass jars are preferred for certain tests that require protection from plastic contaminants. They provide a secure and non-reactive container for sensitive solid samples.

Preservation Solutions for Specimens

In addition to using the appropriate containers, preserving and stabilizing sensitive specimens often requires the use of preservation solutions. These solutions help maintain the integrity of the sample for accurate testing. Here are some common preservation solutions used in medical laboratories in the United States:

1. Formalin

1. Formalin is a formaldehyde-based solution used for preserving tissue specimens for histology and pathology studies. It fixes tissues by cross-linking proteins, preventing degradation and maintaining cellular structures.
2. Formalin is commonly used for preserving biopsy specimens, surgical specimens, and autopsy samples. It helps prevent tissue autolysis and maintains the morphology of cells for microscopic examination.

2. Alcohol

1. Alcohol, such as ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, is used for preserving microbiology specimens and specimens for DNA analysis. It acts as a dehydrating agent, preventing microbial growth and degradation of genetic material.
2. Alcohol is commonly used for preserving swab specimens, urine samples, and DNA samples for PCR analysis. It helps maintain the integrity of microbial cultures and DNA strands for accurate testing.

3. EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid)

1. EDTA is a chelating agent used for preserving blood specimens for hematology studies. It acts by binding to calcium ions, preventing coagulation and preserving cell structures in blood samples.
2. EDTA is commonly used for preserving whole blood samples, plasma samples, and buffy coat specimens. It helps maintain the integrity of blood cells and prevents clotting during transportation and storage.

Conclusion

Preserving and stabilizing sensitive specimens in a medical laboratory setting is essential for obtaining accurate Test Results. By using the appropriate containers and preservation solutions, lab technicians can ensure that samples remain viable and reliable for analysis. In the United States, common containers like tubes, bottles, and jars made of plastic or glass are used for preserving specimens. Preservation solutions such as formalin, alcohol, and EDTA are commonly used to stabilize specimens for various tests. Following established guidelines and best practices for specimen preservation is crucial for maintaining the quality and reliability of laboratory testing.

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