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How do you transport specimens suspected of containing Herpes?

a) Refrigerate the specimen for preservation.
b) Place the specimen in a leak-proof container at room temperature.
c) Use a regular envelope for transport.
d) Do not transport the specimen.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

To transport specimens with suspected Herpes virus, they should be placed in a leak-proof container and can usually be kept at room temperature for short-term transport or refrigerated/frozen for longer storage. Using a regular envelope is not appropriate due to contamination risks, and not transporting the samples at all is not an option since laboratory analysis is necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

To transport specimens suspected of containing Herpes virus, it is important to follow biosafety protocols to ensure the integrity of the specimen and the safety of individuals handling it. Typically, for short-term transport, specimens should be placed in a leak-proof container and can be kept at room temperature unless otherwise specified by the collection procedure. For long-term storage or transport, the specimen may require refrigeration or freezing. It is not advisable to use a regular envelope due to the risk of leakage and contamination. Specimens should not be left untransported as they need to be analyzed in a clinical lab for accurate diagnosis.

Consistent with other medical specimens, for specimen preservation during transit, the industry standard is to use a leak-proof container, often accompanied by an additional outer packaging to prevent any possible spills or contamination. It is crucial to follow specific guidelines according to health regulations and the lab's instructions. Failure to properly package and handle specimens could result in degradation or contamination, which may affect diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, ultra-low temperature storage might be used for very specific types of samples or when indicated by the lab's protocol.

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