SPILT SAMPLES:
Spillages of samples during the obtaining process should be cleared up as per local protocols and procedures. Where patients are sent home to take samples, for example urine or faeces samples, procedures on how to clear up spillages should be explained to them prior to departure.
Useful information:

• PPE (gloves, apron, and safety glasses) should be worn when cleaning up a spilled patient sample, and all cuts, abrasions, etc. should be covered.
• The spill should be absorbed using inert material such as paper towel – for blood spillages use absorbent granules such as Haz-Tab granules, available through NHS Supplies.
• Place the used material from above into a suitable container for disposal in line with local policy.
• Clean the area with a suitable disinfectant.
• For patients at home, urine and/or faeces samples could be cleaned up using toilet paper which is the flushed down the toilet.

 

LEAKING SAMPLES ON GP PREMISES:
If the sample container has been sealed properly, a sample should not leak, and f it has been packaged correctly, any leak should be contained within the packaging.
Samples which have leaked out of the packaging should be dealt with as described for spilt samples:

• PPE (gloves, apron, and safety glasses) should be worn when cleaning up a spilled sample from someone else, and all cuts, abrasions, etc. should be covered.
• The spill should be absorbed using inert material such as paper towel – for blood spillages use absorbent granules such as Haz-Tab granules, available through NHS Supplies.
• Place the used material from above into a suitable container for disposal in line with local policy.
• Clean the area with a suitable disinfectant.
• If the sample is leaking badly, it should be discarded as clinical waste and a further sample sought from the patient.
 

 
LEAKING SAMPLES DURING TRANSPORT:
If any samples are found to be leaking during transport, the leak should be contained/absorbed by the packaging.
Model rules produced by the Pathology Department must be followed by all couriers and covers what to do in the event of a leaking sample-
Excerpt from the Model Rules for Porters

• If a specimen leaks into a specimen transport box, tell the laboratory reception staff and ask them to make it safe.
• If you drop and break a specimen do not touch it or try to clear up the mess. Stay with the specimen to prevent other people touching it and send to the laboratory for assistance.  If you spill any specimen onto your uniform, you must remove it as soon as possible, then wash your hands and put on a clean uniform.
• Report the accident to your supervisor as soon as possible and complete an ‘Adverse Event / Near Miss Form’.
• If you drive a van make sure that specimens are collected in a sealed specimen bag containing an absorbent pad, place it in the sealed container provided and ensure that this is secured in the van. In the unlikely event of a spillage into the van, do not attempt to mop it up.  Drive to the laboratory for assistance.
• If your vehicle breaks down or you have an accident, do not let anyone touch the specimens unless they come from a hospital and they are aware of the appropriate procedures.
• Handle specimen containers gently at all times.