If a sample has been mishandled or stored incorrectly, what is the next step?

When a sample has been mishandled or stored incorrectly, the best course of action is to recollect the sample. This is because the integrity and quality of the sample are essential for obtaining accurate test results. If the sample has been compromised, testing it could lead to erroneous results, which would ultimately impact patient care and treatment decisions.

Recollecting the sample ensures that the lab has a reliable specimen for analysis. Proper handling and storage are critical to maintaining the sample's stability and preventing any degradation that could affect the test outcomes. Should samples be tested despite being mishandled, there is a risk of false positives or negatives, which can lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment plans. Therefore, to uphold the standards of laboratory practices and patient safety, recollecting the sample is the appropriate step.