Which item is not typically included on a specimen identification and referral form?

Which item is not typically included on a specimen identification and referral form?

• A. Patient's name
• B. Date and time of collection
• C. Physician's name
• D. Patient's favorite color

Answer: (D)

On a specimen identification and referral form, the goal is to include information that uniquely identifies the patient and ensures the lab can correctly process and route the specimen and results. The patient’s name confirms identity, the date and time of collection tracks when the specimen was obtained and helps with specimen stability and proper ordering, and the physician’s name identifies who requested the test and provides a contact for reporting results or clarifications. The patient’s favorite color, while harmless, has no bearing on identifying the patient or handling the specimen and adds irrelevant data to the form. Therefore, the item not typically included is the patient’s favorite color.

On a specimen identification and referral form, the goal is to include information that uniquely identifies the patient and ensures the lab can correctly process and route the specimen and results. The patient’s name confirms identity, the date and time of collection tracks when the specimen was obtained and helps with specimen stability and proper ordering, and the physician’s name identifies who requested the test and provides a contact for reporting results or clarifications. The patient’s favorite color, while harmless, has no bearing on identifying the patient or handling the specimen and adds irrelevant data to the form. Therefore, the item not typically included is the patient’s favorite color.