After the needed blood has been collected from the heel of the newborn, the foot should be elevated above the body, and a sterile gauze, pad or cotton swab pressed against the puncture site until the bleeding stops. If bleeding continues after three to five minutes, consult a physician. In order to expedite the testing of all of the blood samples, and to insure the integrity of the sample, all specimens should be sent to the Waycross Regional Laboratory on the day of collection. Wrap each specimen with absorbent material to cushion it from breakage or in case of breakage, to absorb the leakage. Place wrapped specimen in aluminum container.
Postal regulations require that the outer metal screw-on lid be secured with tape.
Labels may be ordered from Waycross Regional Laboratory. U.S. postal regulations allow up to 50 ml of blood to be transported in one package. Transport specimen promptly to the laboratory. When mailing is delayed, refrigerate at 2-8 o C pending transport. Transport by U.S. mail, or courier.