A Guide to Specimen Management in Clinical Microbiology, Second Edition is the classic reference that addresses and meets the needs of everyone in the "total testing process" circle. It provides complete, concise information on the unique needs of the microbiology laboratory regarding specimen management and is the only single source for the specimen management policies required for laboratory results that are accurate, significant, and clinically relevant.Medical, nursing, and medical technology students, practicing physicians, private practice offices, clinical laboratories, and public health laboratories can turn to this valuable resource to answer their questions on issues such as the correct procedures of specimen selection, collection, transport, and storage in the clinical microbiology laboratory, the rationale associated with the specimen requirements, and proper communication between the lab and its clients.Section I examines the premises on which quality microbiology diagnostic processes depend, outlining the criteria that must be followed by the lab in the interest of good lab practice. Section II details the reasons why the lab must be involved in each part of the test process, including the preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical steps. The rationale for stringent standards for specimen quality is also outlined. Section III is the "how to collect" section that is written in NCCLS format for laboratorians and nurses to assist in preparing this portion of the procedure manual. It gives instructions on how to select, collect, store, and transport specimens for microbiologic analysis and includes special instructions for pediatric specimens. The final sectioncontains detailed summary charts for all disciplines of microbiology that can be used as a quick reference guide to answer most questions regarding the lab needs for a particular specimen.