Prøvesamling

Prøvesamling is the process of collecting specimens for laboratory analysis, testing, or research. It encompasses clinical samples such as blood, urine, swabs from the throat or nasal cavity, and tissue biopsies, as well as environmental samples like water, soil, air, and food products. The aim is to obtain material that accurately represents the subject and is suitable for reliable analysis.

The collection is typically carried out by trained personnel such as nurses, phlebotomists, or laboratory technicians, following standard operating procedures. Consent, patient safety, and privacy are considered. Proper labeling with identifiers and a requisition form is essential. For many samples, a chain of custody must be maintained, particularly for forensic or legal investigations. Handling includes choosing the correct collection method, minimizing contamination and hemolysis, and collecting an adequate volume. Specimens are placed in appropriate containers or transport media, and conditions such as temperature or light exposure are observed. Timely transport to the laboratory is critical; some samples must be processed immediately, others can be stored at refrigerated or frozen temperatures.

In the laboratory, specimens may undergo pre-analytical checks, analysis, and post-analytical handling. Proper storage and aliquoting are important for repeat testing. Results depend on the quality of the pre-analytical phase; thus, errors at collection are a major source of inaccurate results. Regulatory and ethical considerations include patient privacy, informed consent, and adherence to standards such as ISO 15189 for medical laboratories or ISO 17025 for testing facilities. Prøvesamling practices are also governed by biosafety guidelines to protect staff and the environment.