Final answer:
Bilirubin specimens require protection primarily from light, as exposure can cause degradation of the sample, impacting the accuracy of diagnostic tests for conditions like jaundice.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bilirubin specimens require protection mainly from light but can also be affected by oxygen, temperature, and pH changes. When bilirubin is exposed to light, it can break down, which may lead to inaccurate test results.
This is particularly important when diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as jaundice, where the assessment of bilirubin levels in the blood provides critical information about a patient's liver function and the breakdown process of hemoglobin.
Handling and storing bilirubin samples in a way that minimizes exposure to light ensures that the bilirubin does not degrade before analysis, providing more reliable results.