Intermediate
Formal
IVT
chain of custody
Documentation system tracking specimen handling from collection through laboratory analysis to ensure integrity.
Full Definition
Chain of custody refers to the documented, chronological record of specimen handling that maintains evidence of proper collection, transport, and processing procedures. In newborn screening, chain of custody documentation includes collection information, transport conditions, laboratory receipt acknowledgment, and storage details. This system ensures specimen integrity, prevents mix-ups, and provides legal protection for laboratory results. Proper chain of custody is essential for regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate: 'chain-of-custody' when used as an adjective.
In Context
- "The laboratory maintained complete chain of custody documentation for all screening specimens." — Audit findings report
- "Broken chain of custody required specimen recollection and delayed screening results." — Incident report
Also known as
custody documentation
specimen tracking
Don't confuse with
quality control
specimen adequacy