What is the primary reason for proper labeling of blood specimens?

The primary reason for proper labeling of blood specimens is to ensure that the right patient receives the right test. Accurate labeling is crucial in the medical laboratory setting because it helps to verify the identity of the patient and the sample being tested. This process significantly reduces the risk of mix-ups or errors that could lead to incorrect diagnoses and treatments.

Labels should include essential information such as the patient's name, identification number, date and time of collection, and the type of specimen. By adhering to proper labeling protocols, healthcare professionals can ensure that the laboratory receives clear and unequivocal information, which is vital for accurate testing and patient safety.

While specimen transport, avoiding sample rejection, and maintaining a chain of custody are important aspects of specimen handling, they ultimately stem from the foundational need to correctly identify patient specimens to ensure the integrity and reliability of test results.