CAP TODAY Pathology/Laboratory Medicine/Laboratory Management
The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute has released an updated edition of its standard NBS01-A6 (replaces LA04-A5), “Blood Collection on Filter Paper for Newborn Screening Programs; Approved Standard-Sixth Edition.” This document contains new information and insight for personnel on the essentials of correctly collecting a high-quality specimen, handling the specimen after it has been collected, transporting it to the testing facility, and sorting the residual specimen that remains after laboratory testing.
Highlights of the updated standard include procedures for applying blood that was collected by different techniques in the preprinted circles (targets) on the specimen collection device (card) and collection of blood with transfer devices. The standard outlines the analysis of poor-quality and less-than-ideal specimens, addresses interfering substances, and provides recommendations on the sources of blood. NBS01-A6 also recommends pain-management strategies for newborns during skin puncture and describes minimal and optional information to capture with the collected specimen.
Appendices were updated and improved, and some are available in laminated format for use as instructional aids. An instructional DVD consistent with the new content in NBS01-A6 will be available late this year.
CLSI, 610-688-0100