Specimen Integrity & Rejection Prevention Advanced Skills Series
4 CEUs in Advanced Quality & Compliance Training
The Specimen Integrity & Rejection Prevention Advanced Skills Series equips phlebotomists with the advanced knowledge and critical thinking skills required to protect specimens from collection through processing and prevent costly, avoidable rejections.
This bundle focuses on the pre-analytical phase, where the majority of laboratory errors occur, and emphasizes how phlebotomist decisions directly impact test accuracy, patient outcomes, redraw rates, and laboratory efficiency. Through real-world scenarios and best-practice strategies, participants strengthen their ability to identify risk factors, apply proper handling techniques, and act as frontline quality advocates within the healthcare system.
Ideal for:
Experienced phlebotomists who want to reduce errors, improve specimen quality, and elevate their role in laboratory quality assurance.
| Course Title | CEUs |
|---|---|
Unit 1: Minimizing Pre-analytical variability This course explores the most common sources of pre-analytical variability that occur before a specimen ever reaches the analyzer. Participants examine how patient preparation, collection technique, tube selection, timing, and handling directly influence test reliability. Emphasis is placed on recognizing preventable errors such as hemolysis, improper order of draw, inadequate mixing, and patient-related variables and applying evidence-based strategies to minimize their impact. | 1 CEU |
Unit 2: Specimen Transport Methods Specimen integrity does not end at collection. This course focuses on transport methods and conditions that preserve analyte stability from point of collection to laboratory receipt. Participants review transport containers, additives, media, temperature control, packaging requirements, and regulatory considerations that affect specimen viability. Special attention is given to time-sensitive, temperature-sensitive, and specialty specimens commonly affected during transit. | 1 CEU |
Unit 3: Rejection Criteria for lab samples This course examines the most common reasons laboratories reject specimens, including labeling errors, hemolysis, clotting, insufficient volume, contamination, and improper handling. Participants explore the downstream consequences of rejected samples from delayed diagnosis to patient dissatisfaction while gaining practical strategies to prevent rejection at the source. Realistic scenarios reinforce proper technique, documentation, communication, and quality awareness. | 1 CEU |
Unit 4: Clinical Specimens Processing This advanced course focuses on the critical steps that occur between collection and analysis, where processing errors can compromise even well-collected specimens. Participants review proper tube handling, order of draw, mixing, visual inspection, and processing requirements for temperature-, light-, and time-sensitive specimens. The course also emphasizes documentation, communication, and collaboration with laboratory staff when issues arise. | 1 CEU |