Table 1:

Standard precautions – Summary modified for cytopathology laboratory specimens based on the CDC guidelines.^[14,15]

Ensure that the technologist use personal protective equipment(PPE) such as medical mask, gloves, eye protection, and a long-sleeved gown. If the specimen with potential of aerosol-generation, such as squirting of aspirates from fine-needle aspiration biopsy procedure is being processed, the personnel should wear at least the protective mask such as NIOSH certified N95, an EU standard FFP2, or the equivalent. All personnel involved in handling and transporting the specimens should be trained for safely handling the process, including spill decontamination methods. Transport the primary specimen container with the patient’s label in a leak-proof secondary containers, such as sealable plastic biohazard specimen bag with properly filled laboratory requisition. Adhere to all biosafety practices including transport precautions (6c) depending on the pathophysiology of the organism being considered. Preferably transport fresh, unfixed specimens by hand, and DO NOT ship the specimen with pneumatic-tube systems. Each specimen must be clearly labeled with at least two patient identifiers including full name and date of birth with other details with specific warnings as applicable (e.g., suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 virus) on the form. Let the laboratory know immediately that such a specimen is on the way.