Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
This is a National Screening Programme. Testing includes HBsAg, HIV and syphilis. As a national screening programme there are strict quality standards to be adhered too when submitting samples. Samples must be sent together with the dedicated antenatal screening form. Forms must be filled in completely with the required information. In situations where booking samples are taken in a location without access to the correct form, please contact the laboratory to ensure the sample is identified and processed correctly.
The laboratory must be contacted directly when booking occurs after 20 weeks, or where there is unbooked presentation in labour, to ensure samples are processed urgently.
Further information is available under individual test names or on the screening programme website.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted Blood
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
N/A
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample Stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add On Test:
Test may added where indicated during pregnancy (e.g. to determine immunity after a chickenpox exposure)
Quality Assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable. Note that results reflect status at the time the sample is taken. Where there is ongoing risk tests should be repeated later in pregnancy.
Reference Ranges:
None available
Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
Infectious diseases in pregnancy screening (IDPS): programme overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Other Info:
N/A