American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

What is the recommendation regarding the transportation of body fluid specimens by pneumatic tube systems?

1. It is always recommended

2. It is not recommended

3. It is only recommended for specific tests

4. It varies by institution

The correct answer is: It is not recommended

The recommendation regarding the transportation of body fluid specimens by pneumatic tube systems is that it is not advisable. The primary concern with using pneumatic tube systems for such sensitive specimens is the potential for damage or alteration to the samples during transit. Body fluids, especially those containing cells or cellular components, can be adversely affected by the rapid movement and potential shear forces inflicted by the pneumatic system. For instance, factors such as temperature changes and vibration can lead to hemolysis in blood specimens, contamination, or degradation of cellular integrity in other bodily fluids. Therefore, it is critical for laboratories to handle these specimens under optimal conditions to ensure accurate diagnostic results. Relying on pneumatic systems can introduce variables that compromise specimen quality, which is why alternatives such as hand delivery or dedicated transport systems are often recommended for these types of samples.