Heavy Metal Screen (Hair) Test | Austin Pathology

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Heavy Metal Screen (Hair)

Alternate Names	Heavy Metal Screen Hair
Test Code	IR
Testing Laboratory	Not Applicable
Specimen Type	Hair
Container Type	Not Applicable
Medicare Rebate	Yes
Out of Pocket Costs	None
Ordering Information	'Heavy metal testing' does not constitute a valid request. Specific metal/s must be individually listed by the doctor before specimen can be referred out for testing.
Collection Instructions	COLLECTION PROCEDURE (Hair) 1. Correctly identify the patient 2. Use correct Hand Hygiene technique at all times during the procedure 3. Prepare collection equipment - blunt forceps/tweezers and 50 ml yellow-topped container 4. Using the forceps/tweezers pluck the hairs from the area required 5. A minimum of 4 hairs with the root attached are required 6. Collect the hair sample into the container and label with patient idenitifcation details, sample type and site of collection, date and time 7. Complete collector's declaration and send specimen to the laboratory 8. Place forceps in sharps disposal
Transport Instructions	None
Storage Instructions	None
Testing Frequency	None
Min Test Volume	0.5g
Add On Test Suitability	Not Applicable

Container ID	FORM
CSR Instructions	Instructions for: Metropolitan & Regional Specimen Receptions If a request for 'Heavy Metal Screen' without specified metals is received, enter an IR code and contact the referring clinician to obtain confirmation of the specific tests required. Samples may be stored while a new form is sent to the laboratory.
Laboratory Instructions	Instructions for: Metropolitan & Regional Laboratories Refer to IR for confirmation of what tests are requested.
Accredited Test	No

These PDF documents can be downloaded for your reference

Order of Draw (PDF)

Swab Collection Guide (PDF)

Pre-Transfusion Specimen Requirements (PDF)

Requirements for Pathology Service (PDF)