Abstract

THE ROLE OF NURSING IN OPTIMIZING SPECIMEN COLLECTION PROCEDURES: BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN LABORATORY AND PATIENT CARE

Abdulrhman Ali Almazam* and Khalid Bataa Albeladi

ABSTRACT

Background: Specimen collection is a critical component of clinical diagnostics, directly influencing the accuracy of laboratory results and subsequent patient management. Despite its importance, the process is frequently prone to pre-analytical errors such as incorrect labeling, improper collection techniques, and delays in transport, which compromise diagnostic reliability. These errors often arise from gaps in communication and coordination between nursing and laboratory teams. Nursing professionals, being central to patient care and often the primary facilitators of specimen collection, are in a pivotal position to optimize these procedures. Their involvement can significantly enhance the quality of specimen collection, thereby bridging the gap between laboratory precision and patient-centered care. Aim: This paper aims to explore the role of nursing in optimizing specimen collection procedures by identifying common errors, implementing targeted interventions, and fostering collaboration between laboratory and clinical teams. Additionally, the study examines how nursing-led practices impact diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating qualitative interviews with nursing staff, laboratory technicians, and patients, alongside quantitative analysis of pre-analytical error rates across healthcare settings. Observational studies were conducted to identify procedural inefficiencies, and interventions such as structured training programs, standardized protocols, and technological solutions were implemented. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis for qualitative findings and statistical tools for quantitative outcomes. Results: The study revealed that nursing interventions, including education and adherence to standardized collection protocols, resulted in a 40% reduction in pre-analytical errors. Enhanced communication between nursing and laboratory teams streamlined workflows, reducing processing times by an average of 25%. Patient satisfaction scores improved, highlighting the role of nursing in fostering trust and comfort during specimen collection. Structured training programs demonstrated a significant positive correlation with error reduction and process efficiency. Conclusion: Nursing plays an indispensable role in optimizing specimen collection processes, significantly reducing pre-analytical errors and improving interdepartmental collaboration. By acting as a bridge between laboratory operations and patient care, nurses enhance diagnostic accuracy and overall healthcare delivery. The findings underscore the need for institutional support in implementing nurse-led initiatives, including comprehensive training programs and interdepartmental communication frameworks, to achieve sustainable improvements in specimen collection.

Keywords: Nursing interventions, specimen collection, pre-analytical errors, laboratory-patient interface, diagnostic accuracy, patient-centered care.