What information in a positive result report supports traceability and integrity?

• A. Date/time and instrument serial number.
• B. Reagent lot numbers.
• C. Specimen ID.
• D. Specimen ID and chain-of-custody reference.

Answer: (D)

Ensuring traceability and integrity means keeping an auditable trail that ties the result to the exact specimen and shows every step the sample took through handling and testing. The specimen ID identifies the sample itself and links the result to the correct patient or source. The chain-of-custody reference records every transfer and handling event, who/where was involved, and when it happened, creating a defensible history from collection to reporting. Together, they provide a complete, verifiable trail that stands up to scrutiny if questions arise about identity or custody of the specimen.

Date/time and instrument serial number give procedural context but don’t prove who handled the specimen or that the correct sample was tested. Reagent lot numbers help with quality control of the materials used but don’t establish the sample’s journey. Specimen ID alone confirms identity but lacks the custody history.