Addressograph labels are not acceptable on any samples. Unlabelled samples will not be accepted under any circumstances. They will be disposed of to protect patients. Inadequately labelled specimens will also not be accepted.
Accident & Emergency “unknown” patients There is a numbering system in the Emergency Department to label samples from any patients who are unable to be identified. The sex of the patient must be added to the request card and an approximate age if not known. This system must be used so that the patient can be clearly identified in the Emergency Department and when they get to theatres. Failure to use the system will result in confusion and delay. The Blood Transfusion Department staff will not add any information to request cards or specimens. If an unconscious patient is subsequently identified, the Department will continue to use the emergency number until a new request card and specimen of blood are received with the patient's full identification.
All blood crossmatched using the emergency number will be withdrawn after 12 hours unless the patient is still not identified.
