🧪 Sample Collection Procedures
At Andalab Medical Laboratory, we ensure all samples are collected safely, hygienically, and according to strict medical standards. Here’s a guide to how we collect the three main types of samples.
🩸 Blood Sample
Blood tests are used to assess organ function, detect infections, evaluate chronic conditions, and monitor treatment outcomes. A small amount of blood is drawn, usually from a vein in your arm, by a trained professional.
🔹 Before the Test
Preparation: Some tests may require fasting (no food or drink except water) for 8–12 hours. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Clothing: Wear loose sleeves or short sleeves to allow access to your arm.
Notify the staff: Inform the technician if you feel anxious about needles, tend to faint, or have a bleeding disorder or allergies.
🔹 During the Test
You will be seated or lying down comfortably.
A tourniquet is applied to your upper arm to make the veins more visible.
The area is cleaned with antiseptic, and a sterile needle is used to draw blood into one or more collection tubes.
Once the sample is collected, the needle is removed, pressure is applied to stop any bleeding, and a bandage is placed.
🔹 After the Test
It is common to experience mild bruising, tenderness, or soreness at the puncture site. This occurs when a small amount of blood leaks under the skin after the needle is removed. The area may appear slightly red or purple and feel tender to the touch.
Bruising typically peaks within the first 24–48 hours and fades over several days.
To minimize discomfort:
Apply firm pressure to the site for several minutes after the needle is removed.
Keep the bandage on for at least 30 minutes.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity with the affected arm for the rest of the day.
A cold compress can be applied for short intervals if swelling occurs.
Seek medical advice if you experience:
Excessive or prolonged bruising
Persistent pain or swelling
A hard lump under the skin
Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or pus
Urine Sample Collection
Urine tests help evaluate kidney function, identify infections, and detect metabolic or hormonal imbalances. The type of collection may vary depending on the test required. Most routine tests use a clean-catch midstream sample.
🔹Before the Test
Hydration: Drink a moderate amount of water, but avoid excessive intake that may dilute the sample.
Instructions: You will be given a sterile container and specific instructions appropriate for your test.
🔹Collection Procedure
Hygiene: Wash your hands and clean the external genital area thoroughly with soap and water. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel or disposable paper towel.
Opening the container: Open the sterile container without touching the inside or the lid.
Collecting the sample:
Begin urinating into the toilet to flush out any contaminants from the urethra (if a midstream sample is required).
Collect the next portion of urine directly into the sterile container.
For some tests (e.g., first-catch urine for certain STI screenings), the initial portion of urine may be required. Follow the specific instructions provided.
Avoid any contact between the urine and your skin or hands, and do not touch the inside of the container.
Fill the container approximately halfway or up to the marked line, if indicated.
🔹Important Notes
Avoid collecting urine during menstruation unless advised otherwise.
💩 Stool (Fecal) Sample Collection
Stool tests are used to detect gastrointestinal infections, parasites, hidden blood, and digestive issues. Proper collection technique is important to avoid contamination.
🔹Before the Test
Dietary or medication restrictions may apply, depending on the type of test. You will be informed in advance if necessary.
You will receive a sterile container and any required collection tools.
🔹Collection Procedure
Empty your bladder beforehand to avoid mixing urine with the stool sample.
Defecate into a clean, dry container, a disposable collection device, or plastic wrap placed over the toilet.
Use the provided scoop or spatula to transfer a small amount of stool (about the size of a walnut) into the sterile container.
Close the lid tightly.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after collection.
🔹Important Notes
Do not mix the sample with water, urine, or toilet paper.
Follow any specific storage or handling instructions provided for your test.
📦 Sample Drop-Off Instructions
Please label your sample container clearly with your name and collection date.
Deliver it to the lab within the instructed timeframe.
Contact us at 📞 086 470 5043 or 📧 andalab@andalab.net if you have questions or need assistance with any part of the collection process, our staff will be happy to help. Your comfort, safety, and the accuracy of your results are our top priorities.