Where should labeling be performed to prevent specimen misidentification in a multi-sample collection?

Prepare for the CAMLPR Specimen Collection Competency Test. Practice with diverse question sets including multiple-choice and flashcards. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you become proficient before the exam.

Labeling at the bedside is the safest way to prevent misidentification because the specimen is linked to the correct patient right at the moment of collection, with immediate verification of identifiers and the specific test requested. In a multi-sample draw, delays or steps later in the process—such as labeling in the lab, during transport, or using pre-labeled labels—create opportunities for tubes to be swapped or mixed up and for patient IDs to be mismatched. Bedside labeling ensures the right patient, right tube, and right test are connected from the start, reducing errors as the specimens move through transport and processing.