LabNotes - Volume 14, No.1, 2004

From The Editor

In this issue of LabNotes we focus on Hematology. Understanding the effects of inappropriate collection, handling and processing of hematology specimens is crucial for accurate results. Our feature article addresses common preanalytical variables seen in Hematology and gives advice on how to overcome them.

There has recently been some confusion in the clinical laboratory community regarding OSHA's position on the reuse of tube holders. In October 2003, OSHA posted a Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) clarifying its original position on this issue. The SHIB restates the fact that removing a contaminated needle from a tube holder is prohibited. Using a Question and Answer format, the Best Practice section takes you through all the relevant information you need in order to understand this OSHA requirement.

Lastly, we would like to take the opportunity to salute all medical laboratory professionals as we celebrate National Medical Laboratory Week, April 18-24, 2004. This is a good time to remind the medical community and the public about the critical role laboratorians play in every aspect of healthcare.

We hope you enjoy this issue of LabNotes. Thank you for all your valuable comments. We appreciate your feedback as always.

Jeffry B. Lawrence, MD, FASCP
Editor, LabNotes

Associate Editor
Leslie S. Magee, MBA, MT(ASCP)

Editorial Contributor
Vera Bitcon, MS, MT(ASCP)

Production Coordinator
Marion Plumley

LabNotes is published by BD Diagnostics - Preanalytical Systems, Franklin Lakes, NJ, providing the laboratory community with laboratory products, including the BD Vacutainer® Brand System, the BD Unopette™ Brand System, BD Microtainer® Brand Tubes, BD Vacutainer® Safety-Lok™ Needle Holder, BD Vacutainer® Safety-Lok™ Blood Collection Set, BD Vacutainer® Needle Disposal Container, BD Vacutainer® Eclipse™ Blood Collection Needle, BD Microtainer® Quikheel™ Lancet, BD Microtainer® Genie™ Lancet, and BD Vacutainer® Blood Collection Tubes.

Address all correspondence to: Leslie Magee, Associate Editor, LabNotes, BD Diagnostics - Preanalytical Systems, 1 Becton Drive MC325, Franklin Lakes, NJ USA 07417-1885.

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