All 24-hour urine specimens must be clearly labeled with a collection start date/time and end date/time in addition to two patient identifiers (e.g., patient identification label).  Missing information causes delays in test analysis and result availability.  It is recommended that the dates and times for the start and finish times be recorded clearly on the 24 hour specimen container(s).  Previously, paper requisitions contained this information.  Failure to provide this critical testing information may lead to erroneous results and delay patient care.

In addition, all other specimens sent to Pathology including sputum and stool collections need two patient identifiers on the containers containing the specimens.

Questions should be directed to Matthew Krasowski, MD, PhD, Director of Clinical Laboratories (384-9380, matthew-krasowski@uiowa.edu).