Tritiated Thymidine BeLPT: Blood Specimen

DOE-SPEC-1142-2001

5.3.2. The beta counter (gas ionization or scintillation) should be calibrated at

regular intervals according to the instrument manufacturer's specifications to

ensure optimal performance. Documentation of the calibration should be kept

in a readily accessible format.

5.3.3. Each plate contains blank wells. Mean counts per minute (cpm) for the blank

wells should not exceed the normal range of background counts for the

counting instrument used. Documentation of the normal range of background

counts should be maintained.

5.3.4. After training, each new technician should set up approximately 10 tests in

duplicate with other experienced technicians. This can be done using blood

submitted, since about 25% of the samples will have enough cells. When the

duplicate tests are completed, the following parameters should be compared:

counts in blank wells, coefficient of variation in the control wells, calculated

stimulation indexes in the beryllium-stimulated wells and in the mitogen-

stimulated wells, and overall interpretation of the test. The comparison should

be based on the statistics described in Appendix B.

5.3.5. The laboratory should have knowledge of and adherence to applicable

standards for dealing with chemical, biological, radiological hazards, and

waste handling procedures. Documentation should be maintained on required

training for laboratory personnel in the areas of: radiation hazards, blood-

borne pathogens, and chemical hazards.

5.3.6. The laboratory should maintain a log of samples received containing, at a

minimum: name and/or identification number, date received, time in transit,

and unusual circumstances (e.g., more than 24 hours old, hemolyzed, tubes

extremely hot or cold, etc.).

5.3.7. It shall be the responsibility of the Laboratory Director or designee to assure

that the laboratory meets an external standard of quality assurance and quality

control and that the laboratory is in compliance with appropriate State and

Federal regulations. The College of American Pathologists (CAP)

accreditation is required.

6. TRITIATED THYMIDINE BeLPT: BLOOD SPECIMEN.

6.1.

SAMPLE COLLECTION PROCEDURE

6.1.1. Three 10 ml containers of heparinized blood is sent at room temperature to

arrive at the testing site within 24 to 30 hours of being drawn. Appropriate

insulating material should be used to maintain satisfactory temperature control

and to avoid extreme temperature fluctuation of the cells and maximize cell

viability during shipping. Use three sterile green-top sodium or lithium

heparinized vacutainers, 10 ml size.