This course is a 1.0 CE asynchronous course designed for CPT, MLT, and MLS/CLS professionals. This course examines the critical role of the pre-analytical phase in laboratory testing, from patient identification and specimen collection through labeling, handling, transportation, processing, and preparation for analysis. Learners will review specimen quality considerations for hematology, coagulation, and chemistry testing, including appropriate tube selection and volume, clotted and hemolyzed specimens, IV contamination, transport conditions, centrifugation, and specimen acceptance criteria.

Through examples, knowledge checks, and case studies, the course helps laboratory professionals recognize common pre-analytical errors, understand how specimen integrity can affect laboratory results, and apply appropriate procedures for identifying and addressing compromised specimens.