What is a key requirement for labeling to maintain chain-of-custody in the NHCO Order of Draw?

• A. Accurate patient identifiers and test codes, legible labels, and immediate labeling at the bedside.
• B. Labels copied from another patient's records.
• C. Labels created hours after collection.
• D. Labels that omit date/time.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining chain-of-custody hinges on labeling that accurately ties a specimen to the patient and to the specific tests ordered. The best practice is to place a label with accurate patient identifiers and the correct test codes, ensure the label is legible, and apply it immediately at the bedside. This approach creates a clear, traceable link from collection to analysis, so there’s no doubt which patient the specimen came from or which tests it’s for. Immediate bedside labeling reduces the risk of misidentification or mix-ups during transport and processing, and legible labels prevent unreadable information from causing errors in labeling or data entry. Including accurate identifiers and test codes ensures the right specimen is matched to the right order, supporting accurate reporting and patient safety. Labels copied from another patient, created hours later, or missing date/time undermine traceability and increase the chance of errors, misidentification, and lost or misrouted specimens. Date/time on labels is a crucial time-stamp for tracking the specimen’s journey.