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So You’re Holding a Specimen… Now What?
Hey there, new scrub nurse! First off, welcome to the OR world—where every day is fast-paced, focused, and full of firsts. One of those firsts? Specimen Management. Yep, the moment when the surgeon hands over something and you need to know exactly what to do next.
Feeling nervous about it? Totally normal. Let’s walk through it together—no pressure, no jargon, just real talk.
What Is Specimen Management Anyway?
Think of it like this: when something gets removed during surgery (like tissue, fluid, or even a foreign object), it often needs to go to the lab. That’s specimen management—knowing how to handle, label, and pass on that sample safely and correctly.
It might sound small, but it really matters. The specimen could be the key to a diagnosis, treatment plan, or even legal documentation. In other words, your accuracy helps protect patients behind the scenes.
Why It Feels Stressful (But Doesn’t Have to Be)
When you’re new, specimen management can feel like you’re one wrong move away from disaster. But here’s the truth: it’s totally okay to ask questions. Nobody expects you to know everything on day one.
You’re not “just passing a jar”—you’re helping make sure your patient’s journey continues smoothly outside the OR. That’s huge.
Let’s Break It Down: What You’ll Do
Here’s your step-by-step survival guide:
- Receive the specimen from the surgeon Stay calm, stay sterile. If you weren’t expecting it, it’s okay to ask what it is.
- Pass it to the circulating nurse Tell them what the specimen is, how many you have, and where it came from (e.g., “Right breast tissue, for histology”).
- Make sure it goes in the right container Not all specimens use formalin. Some are dry. Some need saline. Don’t guess—ask if you’re unsure.
- Double-check labels This is huge. Make sure the patient’s info, specimen name, and collection site are all correct.
- Document and move on like the pro you are It’s all part of the flow. Before you know it, this stuff will be second nature.
Quick Tips From Nurses Who’ve Been There
- 📝 Write down expected specimens before the case starts—helps keep your mind clear.
- 💬 Confirm out loud: “This is the left ovary, in formalin—right?”
- 🫙 Keep labeled containers nearby (but not in the sterile field).
- 😅 Ask for help if you’re not sure. No shame, only smart teamwork.
Some Common Specimens and Their Containers
| Specimen | Container | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tissue biopsy | Formalin jar | Standard for histology |
| Kidney stone | Dry container | Never in fluid |
| Culture (fluid) | Sterile pot or tube | No preservative |
| Foreign object | Dry sterile container | Label for chain of custody |
| Frozen section | Sterile, NO formalin | Send immediately |
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
Every scrub nurse has stood where you are—wondering if they’re messing it all up. But you’ve got this. The fact that you care about doing specimen management right? That’s the mindset that will make you great.
So next time someone hands you a specimen mid-op, take a breath. Handle it with care. Communicate clearly. And remember: you’re not just following steps—you’re part of the story that gets your patient answers.
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Resources from my Blog
Scrub Nurse: Key Responsibilities During Surgery
Further Reading
NHS – Specimen Handling Policy NHS Specimen Collection & Transport Guide
RCN – Guidance for Theatre Nurses Royal College of Nursing – Perioperative Care Tips
