Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Dried Blood Spots
Container/Tube: Montana DPHHS Laboratory supplied Newborn Screening Card
Specimen Minimum Volume: Circles must be completely filled

Collection Instructions:

1. Sterilize and dry skin. Puncture heel with sterile lancet.

2. Allow large blood droplet to form.

3. Touch filter paper to blood and allow to soak through completely in each circle. Total saturation of the circles must be evident when the paper is viewed on both sides. Do not apply blood to both sides.

4. Be certain to properly fill all 5 circles on the card. These need to all be satisfactory spots.

5. Use of capillary tubes is not recommended because they tend to roughen the filter paper and cause over absorption.

6. Allow blood spots to air dry thoroughly for 2-3 hours at room temperature. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not stack filter papers before thorough drying. Protective cover can be used to hold specimen while drying.

7. Cover with end flap only after specimen is completely dry.

8. Inspect the dried blood spots for adequacy prior to transport. Do not send unsatisfactory specimens.

9. Transport specimen by mail or courier at ambient temperature within 24 hours of collection.

Specimen Rejection:

Specimens will be rejected for any of the following:

1.  All circles not completely filled (QNS)

2.  Blood is layered by application on both sides or by multiple spotting.

3.  Filter paper is scuffed or torn.

4.  Specimen is contaminated or improperly dried.

5.  Information is incomplete

6.  Specimens not received at Montana State Laboratory within 7 days of collection.