Intermediate
Technical
IVT
ASO
Also written as: ASO — automatic specimen order
Automatic specimen order, a request for an additional blood sample when initial screening is inadequate.
Full Definition
An automatic specimen order is generated when the initial dried blood spot sample is inadequate for complete newborn screening analysis due to factors such as insufficient blood volume, clotting, or contamination. The ASO triggers collection of a new sample to ensure all required screening tests can be performed. Prompt collection of the repeat sample is critical to avoid delays in detecting time-sensitive conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as ASO.
In Context
- "An ASO was generated due to insufficient blood on the initial screening card." — laboratory communication
- "The hospital's ASO rate decreased after implementing improved collection training." — quality improvement report
Also known as
repeat sample order
second sample request
Don't confuse with
QNS
insufficient sample