Selecting the Right Labels for Laboratory Use and Specimen Tracking
Posted by Kate Sparks
When printing barcodes for use in the lab, labels must remain legible throughout specimen collection, processing and storage phases. If your specimen’s label becomes unreadable, unscannable or falls off during testing, it can cause a sample identification error. To prevent such errors, make sure your lab selects the appropriate label material and printing supplies.
When purchasing labels for your hospital or laboratory, consider where the label will be applied and what conditions it may be exposed to. Will the labels need to withstand sterilization processes, freezing, autoclaves and centrifuges, UV light, X-rays, or other testing conditions? For cold and freezing temperatures, consider cryogenic labels. Also consider whether the label will be applied to a flat or curved surface in addition to the size of each item being labeled. Lastly, ensure that your labels and supplies are compatible with hospital or lab printers. Although it seems like common sense, it doesn't hurt to double check before placing an order.
The chart below offers some examples of labels (offered by Zebra Technologies) that show the breadth and capabilities of thermal supplies for laboratory use. Click here to download a PDF.
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General Lab Label Examples: |
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For assistance selecting the appropriate label for your laboratory, please contact us. We're happy to answer your questions or provide a free evaluation.