Request for Testing (RFT)
Testing is requested via a Request for Testing Form (RFT). Forms may be ordered in triplicate through the Business office at 206-292-6559. Additionally, the Patient History Form (PHF) is required for all test requests. In addition to the PDF files, both the RFT and PHF can be received via facsimile by calling 206-292-6543.

The following information must be completed on the RFT:

• Patient Identification (we require 2 unique identifiers):
  Name (must match information on specimen label);
  Birth Date;
  Social Security Number or Hospital ID Number
• Physician or authorized individual ordering test (First and Last Name)
• Draw date and Accession Number
• If a serum or plasma aliquot is submitted, was the sample was frozen?
• To whom the report should be sent? Our policy is to send one copy to the physician and one copy to the requesting laboratory/hospital.
• Include a contact name and phone number for someone who can answer questions
  concerning the order.
• If you would like a copy of the results faxed as soon as they are available, then please provide a functioning facsimile number.

Labeling Samples
All samples must be properly labeled and information must agree with the identification on the RFT.

• If a specimen is identified by name, there must also be a numeric identifier which may include Hospital number, SS#, birth date, or other coded identifier.
• If only a numeric identifier is used (with no name), the number must be a Hospital number, SS#, or coded identifier. A birth date is not acceptable in this circumstance.
• A draw date should be on the sample but the sample will still be accepted if the draw information is on the RFT.

Submission and Transporting
All samples must be sent to the Blood Center in a sealed, leak-proof container marked with a biohazard sticker to comply with OSHA safety standards.

Send the specimen together with the completed RFT (and PHF is applicable) to:

Puget Sound Blood Center
Attn: Platelet Immunology Lab, Rm 619
921 Terry Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104

All samples are to be shipped with either same-day or first a.m. overnight delivery. Please notify the laboratory (206-292-6543) before any NATP, PTP, and Platelet Typing samples are sent.

Samples must be received Monday morning through Friday morning. Samples received after 8:00a.m. on Friday or over the weekend will have to be re-drawn. The only exceptions are the samples received for Alloantibody Testing and Heparin Antibody Testing (Please see the Comments section above.).