Test Handbook

The following information should be included with test requests:

Patient Information
Surname and given name(s) (or name code)
Gender
Date of birth
Address

Clinical Details
Presenting signs and symptoms
Date of onset of illness
Any recent travel history
Recent immunisation history

Specimen Information
Type of specimen
Date of specimen

Tests Requested

VIDRL requires that each specimen and its accompanying request card are labelled with at least three identifiers which together are capable of distinguishing one individual from another. Some requests may be coded to protect patient confidentiality. A four-letter code consisting of the first two initials of the surname and given name is the accepted convention. The full name (or name code) and date of birth should be written on both the specimen and the request card. Failure to comply with this procedure may delay specimen processing and reporting.

Royal Melbourne Hospital Pathology Test List can be found here: RMH Test List