Laboratory Services, Specimens, and Diagnostic Results
Sets out how the Agency collects, labels, and sends specimens, performs any testing in the home, records the type and frequency of diagnostic services and the dates and times of specimen collection, and makes sure results reach the physician, especially results outside ordered limits.
About this policy
- Policy number
- DC-HH-CS-05
- Version
- 1.0
- Main rule
- 42 CFR §484.100(c)
- Library
- Washington, DC home health · 58 policies
- Category
- Clinical tasks
- Sections
- 17
In short
- Collect a specimen only when there is an order.
- Label it in front of the patient with the name, a second identifier, the date and time, and your initials.
- Put blood and body fluid specimens in a leakproof container and a sealed biohazard bag.
- Record the date and time you collected it, and the result and date when it comes back.
- Call the physician the same day for a critical result or one outside the limits in the orders.
What's inside
17 sections. The full text comes with the One-time Policy Pack.
- Terms of Reference
- 1. Purpose
- 2. Scope
- 3. Definitions
- 4. Policy Statement (22-B DCMR §3911.2; 42 CFR §484.100(c))
- 5. Orders
- 6. Collecting, Labeling, and Sending Specimens
- 7. Testing in the Home
- 8. Referral Laboratories
- 9. Results
- 10. Responsibilities
- 11. Records and Compliance Monitoring
- 12. Staff Training
- 13. References
- 14. Related Policies and Forms
- 15. Approval
- 16. Revision History
An inspector may ask
- Does your agency perform any laboratory tests in the home? Show me your CLIA certificate.
- Which laboratories do you send specimens to? How do you know they are certified?
See Cura Core with your agency's name on it.
Choose your state and type of agency, buy your Policy Pack online and get your sign-in by email. Already a customer? Sign in to your portal.