What should be prepared before transporting a collected urine sample to the laboratory?

• A. Record the patient name.
• B. Prepare the container label and laboratory requisition.
• C. Transport the sample immediately.
• D. Document the color of the urine.

Answer: (B)

Before transporting a collected urine sample, you need to ensure proper identification and documentation so the lab can correctly identify the specimen and process the right tests. The container should have a label with the patient’s full name, unique identifier (such as a medical record number), the date and time of collection, and that it is a urine specimen. The accompanying laboratory requisition should include the patient’s demographics, the ordering physician, the tests requested, any special handling instructions (like timing or preservation needs), and an accession number if available. Together, the label and requisition ensure accurate matching of the specimen to the patient and the correct test orders, and they guide the lab in processing and reporting results.

Recording only the patient name isn’t sufficient because there needs to be a matching requisition and a properly labeled container with all identifying information. Transporting the sample immediately isn’t always appropriate without the label and requisition, since improper labeling can lead to misidentification. Documenting the color of the urine isn’t a transport requirement and can be done later as part of the specimen description, but it won’t ensure correct processing or tracking.