Field blood sample collection and submission require standardized protocols to ensure sample integrity, safety, and compliance—critical for remote research, forensics, and public health. These procedures address challenges like limited resources, environmental variability, and transport delays, guiding personnel from collection to lab handoff.
Core Standard Procedures
-
Preparation: Gather sterile single-use tools (vacutainers/lancets), PPE, preservatives, and labeling materials. Check tool expiry and calibrate if needed.
-
Collection: Disinfect the site, draw blood using proper technique (venipuncture/capillary), and add preservatives (EDTA/ethanol) per sample type. Mix gently to avoid clotting.
-
Labeling: Mark samples with unique ID, date, time, collector, and sample type. Attach labels securely to containers.
-
Preservation/Transport: Store at 2–8°C (coolers with ice packs) or use dried blood spot cards for room-temperature transport. Avoid extreme temps.
-
Submission: Complete chain-of-custody forms, package samples in biohazard containers, and ship to lab with tracking—document all transfers.
Key Features
-
Field-Adaptable: Works with limited equipment and variable environments.
-
Integrity-Focused: Minimizes contamination, hemolysis, and degradation.
-
Compliant: Aligns with global standards (ISO, CLIA) for lab acceptance.
-
Safe: Emphasizes PPE and biohazard handling to prevent pathogen transmission.
Scope & Applications
-
Epidemiology: Remote disease surveillance and outbreak response.
-
Forensics: Crime scene blood evidence collection in rural/remote areas.
-
Wildlife Research: Blood sampling for animal conservation and health monitoring.
-
Global Health: Blood testing in resource-poor regions for public health initiatives.