Specimen Referral
Safe and timely specimen referral is essential for accurate laboratory diagnosis. NPHRRL provides standardized specimen referral services to support healthcare facilities across western Oromia.
About Our Specimen Referral Service
NPHRRL serves as a regional referral laboratory by receiving clinical specimens from hospitals, health centers, health posts, and public health programs. Our referral system ensures that specimens are collected, packaged, transported, and processed according to established laboratory standards, preserving specimen quality and ensuring reliable test results.
Regional
Referral Network
Standardized
Referral Procedures
Secure
Sample Transport
Reliable
Laboratory Results
How the Referral Process Works
Step 1 - Collect
Collect the appropriate specimen following national laboratory guidelines.
Step 2 - Label
Clearly label each specimen with patient identification and request details.
Step 3 - Package
Package specimens using the recommended triple packaging system and biosafety requirements.
Step 4 - Transport
Transport specimens under the required temperature and time conditions.
Step 5 - Receive & Test
The laboratory receives, verifies, and processes the specimens according to standard operating procedures.
Accepted Specimen Types
| Specimen | Common Tests | Container |
|---|---|---|
| Blood | Chemistry, Hematology, Serology | Appropriate Blood Tube |
| Sputum | Tuberculosis, Molecular Testing | Sterile Container |
| Urine | Microbiology, Chemistry | Sterile Container |
| Stool | Microbiology | Sterile Container |
| Swab | Molecular & Microbiology | Transport Medium |
| Water Samples | Water Quality Analysis | Sterile Bottle |
| Food Samples | Food Safety Testing | Sterile Container |
Note:
Contact the laboratory if you are unsure whether your specimen is suitable for referral or if special handling is required.
Packaging & Transportation Requirements
Proper packaging and transportation are essential to maintain specimen integrity and protect personnel during transport. All specimens should be packaged according to national biosafety guidelines and transported using appropriate temperature-controlled containers where required.
Key Requirements
- Use leak-proof primary containers.
- Place the primary container inside a sealed secondary container.
- Use a rigid outer container for transportation.
- Maintain the required temperature during transport.
- Deliver specimens as quickly as possible.
- Attach all required documentation separately from the specimen.
Required Referral Documents
Laboratory Request Form
Specimen Referral Form
Sample Collection Guidelines
Packaging Instructions
Referral Guidelines
Timely Submission
Temperature Control
Complete Documentation
Biosafety Compliance
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can submit specimens?
Hospitals, health centers, health posts, private clinics, public health programs, and authorized institutions may refer specimens according to laboratory procedures.
Can I submit specimens without a request form?
No. Every specimen must be accompanied by a completed laboratory request form to ensure proper identification and testing.
What happens if a specimen is damaged during transport?
Damaged, leaking, or improperly packaged specimens may be rejected to protect laboratory personnel and maintain testing quality.
How can I track the status of my referred specimen?
Healthcare facilities may contact the laboratory using the official referral contact information for updates on specimen receipt and testing progress.
Need Help with Specimen Referral?
Our referral team is available to assist healthcare facilities with specimen collection, packaging, transportation, referral requirements, and laboratory request procedures.
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