Bronchial washings

Test information: Samples are retrieved during a bronchoscopy procedure, isotonic saline is inserted and extracted. Transported via Porter to the laboratory. The laboratory is sent a patient list for each clinic. Tuesday's samples should arrive in the laboratory by 16.30. Thursday's samples should arrive in the laboratory by 14.00. If samples have not been transported to the lab within the time frame, then a member of cytology staff contacts Endoscopy. To allow for processing time prior to Multi-Disciplinary Team meeting.

Specimen Type(s)

• Bronchial washings;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

Sterile universal. Ensure sample vial is labelled with specimen site / type

Specimen Container - Adult

• Plain Universal;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Plain Universal;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

N/A

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

>20mls

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

Washings degrade quickly in saline and must be transported urgently to the laboratory to maintain sample integrity. The samples are hand delivered to cytology as these are required urgently for the MDT. Sample vials must be placed into a clear sealed specimen bag prior to sending to the laboratory accompanied with a completed request form. The sample must be transported to the department using the red designated Pathology transport boxes. These boxes are used by NHS couriers and hospital Porters. They will contain any spillage, and ensure data on samples is kept confidential. Specimens should never be placed in pockets, handbags etc.

Maximum add on time

N/A

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Interpretative comment

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.