Patient Information
Sample storage times vary, depending on the test. Full Blood Count samples are stored for approximately one week, general coagulation tests are stored for one day, specialist coagulation test samples are stored for one month.
The laboratories are unable to discuss results with patients due to GPDR. For any queries regarding test results, please speak to the requesting source, such as your general practitioner who will be able to access and provide your results.
There are many factors which may significantly affect the performance of the examination / interpretation of the results – these include correct sample volume, correct sample preservative, sample storage post collection prior to sample analysis, correct sample preparation prior to analysis, sample haemolysis, presence of clots in sample and sample age at analysis. Please not that this list is not exhaustive, and should there be any factors detected which may significantly affect sample analysis or result interpretation, then this should be stated on the report.
Reference ranges
Alongside the recommendations from RCPath and the IBMS the Haematology departments across BCPS have guidelines in place for results that require reporting as soon as possible to the requesting source in order to instigate appropriate clinical care.
Some results may need to be reported to the requesting source during the out of hours period and may involve informing the out of hours GP deputising service/NHS 111..
Winpath Result Example
Phone criteria
Critical Results are telephoned to the requestor, when deemed appropriate with view of history, if the results are new or unexpected and in line with RCPath suggested critical limits:
Communication Critical Results Final version.docx (rcpath.org).
D-Dimers are a negative indicator and therefore NOT telephoned as a critical result.
Note: The decision to rapidly communicate results is based solely on the numerical value and it is the requestor’s responsibility for assessment and clinical decisions.
Articles / papers ref
SARS 2 COVID 19 induced immunity response, a new prognostic
marker for the pregnant population correlates inversely with neonatal Apgar score:
