[Present situation in preanalytical sample care--from the results of a questionnaire survey in Fukushima Prefecture].

A questionnaire on the preanalytical problems including blood sampling, sample care and transportation was sent to members of the Fukushima Association of Medical Technologists in 118 hospitals. Answers were received from 88 institutions. In more than 90% of the hospitals, blood sampling and transportation of specimens were carried out by nurses. Bleeding from the hospitalized patients was routinely performed early in the morning starting as early as at 5 AM in 40%, at 6 AM in 42% and at 7 AM in 7% of the hospitals. After bleeding, samples for blood cell counting and coagulation studies were transported immediately to the laboratories in 27% and 42% of the institutions respectively. However, blood samples for biochemical analyses and urine samples were stored at room temperature, and the average time until the start of analysis was suggested to be 3 to 4 hours. In the course of this survey and discussion, the importance of preanalytical quality control was better recognized by laboratory staff. Better communication among laboratory staff, nurse, and doctor will improve the preanalytical quality control.