LA04-A4

Blood Collection on Filter Paper for Newborn Screening Programs; Approved Standard-Fourth Edition

NCCLS document LA4-A4-Blood Collection on Filter Paper for Newborn Screening Programs; Approved Standard-Fourth Edition addresses the issues associated with specimen collection, the filter paper collection device, and the transfer of blood onto filter paper. The purpose of these considerations is to produce a functional standard that will result in uniform techniques for collecting the best possible specimen for use in newborn screening programs. Issues addressed in the standard include: (1) procedures for applying blood collected by heel-stick onto the preprinted circles of filter paper; (2) recommendations on the source of blood; (3) techniques for direct collection, and alternative collection procedures of specimens; (4) specifications for the filter paper, handling, and the mailing package; (5) specifications for the specimen collection device; and (6) the handling of blood spots collected on filter paper for DNA analysis.