We received specimens directly in formalin, large and small. We also had to keep small bottles with formalin so the PA could divide the original specimen into parts for histology.
  The empty containers were kept in cabinets in the surgical description area but we never stocked more than those needed for one day.
  Larger containers were kept inside a hood in the morgue. We had a strong program for formalin monitoring to assure a safe environment.
  There are really not defined regulations and the actual setting is open to the "better judgment" of the inspectors.
  René J.

Tom McNemar  wrote:
  I have a meeting tomorrow to discuss the keeping of formalin in the surgery and L&D areas. The hospital just had a JCAHO inspection and the inspectors didn't like it very much. They suggested that the 5 gallon carboys should be stored in hoods or removed from the areas. They went on to say that all specimens should be taken to Histology as fresh specimens and that the Histology personnel should be the ones putting formalin on the specimens. The inspectors said that that was how all of the larger hospitals did it but no one that I have spoken to does it that way.

So my question.... Does anybody (or a significant number of you) do it this way? 

Personally, I can't see how this can be good for the specimens. Specimens would have to be delivered immediately and someone would have to be available 24/7 to take care of them. I just don't see how it can work. I would appreciate any thoughts. Thanks.


Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP)
Histology Co-ordinator
Licking Memorial Health Systems
(740) 348-4163
(740) 348-4166
tmcnemar@lmhealth.org
www.LMHealth.org


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