What happens to my blood after it is collected?

After your blood is collected, a precise chain of custody is followed to ensure specimen integrity and accurate results.

Step 1: Labeling

Each tube is labeled with your name, date of birth, collection date and time, and the phlebotomist's ID. Proper labeling is critical — mislabeled specimens must be recollected.

Step 2: Processing (if needed)

Some tubes must be inverted a specific number of times immediately after collection to mix anticoagulants with blood. Some tests require centrifugation on-site within 30–60 minutes. Mobile phlebotomists equipped with portable centrifuges can do this.

Step 3: Temperature control

Different tests require different storage conditions. Most blood goes in a standard biohazard bag at room temperature or refrigerated. Some specimens (e.g., ACTH, cold agglutinins) must be kept warm or on ice immediately.

Step 4: Transport

Specimens are transported to the laboratory, often in an insulated container with biohazard materials. Transport must comply with IATA P650 (dangerous goods) regulations if shipped.

Step 5: Laboratory receipt

The lab logs receipt, scans barcodes, and assigns specimens to the appropriate analyzers. Testing begins within the specimen's stability window.

Step 6: Remaining specimens

After testing, labs typically retain a small aliquot of your specimen for a defined holding period (usually 3–7 days) in case tests need to be repeated or additional tests ordered.