Test Directory

Specimen storage for Virology

Containers - Adult

RedCapTubeEDTAKE9ml.jpg
Red Cap Tube EDTA KE 9ml
Volume Range

9ml

Reference ranges

N/A

Laboratory Site

RIE
51 Little France Crescent
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Telephone (Virology): Microbiology/Virology Office: 0131 536 3373 (option 1)

Transport arrangements

Inter-site van shuttle service, GP van service, External hospital van service, Couriers, Hospital porter collection (refer to collection times posted in wards / departments), Hospital Pneumatic Tube System (PTS)

Sample storage arrangements

Specimen transport arrangements must be in accordance with current postal and transport regulations. Samples should be transported to the laboratory without delay. If processing is delayed, EDTA blood samples must be stored at room temperature (19-23 oC). Patient samples can be transported at ambient temperature.

Special instructions for collection

​Clinical samples must be collected into leak-proof containers and placed into a sealed bag with absorbent material. Patient samples must be individually packaged and not mixed with other patient samples. Any appropriate hazard labelling should be clearly visible on the sample bag / sample.

How to request

Use appropriate Virology Request Form or TRAK. Forms must be fully completed with Patient Identifier Number (CHI), Forename, Surname, Date of Birth, Gender and Location of patient (hospital and ward or primary care centre).

Availability

Weekdays 08.30 - 17.00

Weekends 9.00 - 16.00

Out of hours on call service for urgent testing 17.00 - 08.30 weekdays and 16.00- 09.00 weekends.

Anticipated turnaround

2 days

What happens if the result is positive or abnormal

N/A

Static information/disclaimer

​False negative results may occur for a variety of reasons including: inappropriate timing of sample collection, inappropriate sample type, inappropriate sample storage and presence of virus below the detectable limit of the assay. New and emerging variants may also occur which may not be detected by specific assays. Towards the limit of detection of an assay sampling variation will result in lower reproducibility. Haemolysed or lipaemic samples can also cause interference with assay results.

General additional information

​Please contact virologyadvice@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk for all non-urgent clinical enquiries.