Sample storage guidance

Synnovis takes all possible steps to ensure that the integrity of samples is maintained prior to them reaching our laboratories for testing.

All vehicles used by our logistics provider GSG are temperature controlled and we have worked with local phlebotomy services to help them safeguard samples prior to collection. We continue to monitor potassium levels in samples, as this allows us to detect any process anomalies.

This is particularly important during the extreme temperatures associated with changeable UK weather patterns. In the worst-case scenario, excessive heat or cold can lead to invalid results. 

Synnovis has a bespoke and regular courier schedule serving practices and healthcare centres across South East London, designed and frequently reviewed to avoid the need for long-term storage at the point of collection.

Please follow the below advice when storing samples for collection:

• All samples should typically be stored at ambient room temperature while awaiting collection
• Do not refrigerate blood samples as these can be affected by the cold, leading to spurious results for some analytes
• Urines for microbiology should be collected in boric acid containers, which will ensure they are stabilised in the event of any delay in processing
• Urines and stool samples for biochemistry can be refrigerated if, for any reason, they had to be stored overnight. However, if you are having to store samples for longer than expected, you should contact the Synnovis Customer Services team so that collection arrangements can be reviewed

For any queries regarding collection arrangements, or to report a delyaed or missing courier collection, please contact the Synnovis Customer Services team by calling 0204 513 7300 or emailing customerservices@synnovis.co.uk