Clinic’s handling of samples raises eyebrows

Carlos Lemos/La Prensa

sloppy: Employees of the Policlínica J.J. Vallarino in Juan Díaz have been seen carrying fluid samples in open boxes and grocery bags.1073842

Unsanitary handling of bodily fluids have been reported at the Policlínica J.J. Vallarino in Juan Díaz, a public health clinic run by the Caja de Seguro Social (CSS).

Clinic workers were observed transporting samples from the laboratory to the parking lot in cardboard boxes or grocery bags, a distance of 200 meters. The samples are then driven to Plaza Tocumen for processing.

When questioned about the practices, Eric Gilkes, deputy director of laboratoris for CSS, said there were no laws regulating the transfer of clinical samples between laboratories, but that there are “strict rules” dictating their packaging and transport. He confirmed that blood samples must be kept cold in order to preserve its condition.

Gilkes explained that tests are being performed in a different area of the clinic while a new lab facility is constructed, necessitating the transfer of samples from one place to another. He added that he was unaware of how clinic staff are transporting samples, but said that he would take actions to rectify matters.