What is typically the first step in laboratory testing for a patient?

The first step in laboratory testing for a patient is specimen collection. This is a critical process because the accuracy and reliability of test results largely depend on the quality of the specimen obtained. During collection, proper techniques must be followed to avoid contamination or degradation of the sample, ensuring that the subsequent analysis reflects the patient's actual condition.

In laboratory settings, specimen collection may vary depending on the type of test being conducted, such as blood draws, urine samples, or swabs. Each type requires specific procedures to ensure that the samples are representative and usable for the intended tests.

Once the specimen is collected, it can then be processed for analysis, leading to steps like specimen analysis, result reporting, and data entry. However, each of these subsequent steps relies on the correct and effective specimen collection that occurs first; therefore, it is the foundational element of the laboratory testing workflow.