Pathologist review of the quantities and morphology of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets on a peripheral blood smear with interpretative comments.
Peripheral smear reviews are performed by trained laboratory scientists when certain criteria are met based on the CBC with Differential results and instrument flagging. If criteria and review of the slide also meets Pathologist Review criteria, established by the Medical Director of the Laboratory, the lab will communicate that to the ordering provider and request that the Pathologist Smear Review be added on to the sample.
Must include CBC with Differential results and clinical indication to be sent to the pathologist for review.
Prepare two well made peripheral blood smear from well mixed whole blood (EDTA) on a notched corner glass slide (Sysmex brand slides preferred). Send one unstained slide and one Wright stained slide.
Slide must be properly labeled with:
For slide preparation see Addendum D
Allow the blood smears to dry completely before placing in the slide carrier for transport.
Print the instrument printout from the hematology analyzer as well as the pathology review coversheet (printed from the hematology analyzer or use attachment on policy.)
If testing/transport of the specimen will exceed 24 hours then the specimen (and slide) should be transported refrigerated.
Once completely dry, place the smears in a slide holder for transport. Place the slide holder and EDTA tube in transport bag. Instrument printouts and coversheet should be placed in the outside pocket of the transport bag.
* This volume does not allow for repeat testing
A CBC with Differential must be performed to order the Pathologist Review. Add-on testing is acceptable if the CBC with Differential has been completed within the last 48 hours.
Include Clinical Indication for Review
Mix tube by inversion 5 times
Do not centrifuge
Specimens must not be clotted. Overfilling or underfilling may allow blood to clot. Specimens may be rejected due to blood changes or deterioration resulting from improper storage or age of specimen
For slide preparation see Addendum D
Clotted specimens
Frozen samples
Wrong anticoagulant tube
Samples >48 hours old
If testing/transport of the specimen will exceed 24 hours then the specimen (and slide) should be transported refrigerated.
Pathologist Interpretive comment.
Pathologist Review will reflex when indicated based on established criteria. Pathologist has the discretion to cancel the test if not indicated.
This test may be ordered by laboratory staff when established criteria is met based on complete blood count results.
72 hrs
01439002
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