Our Sample Collection Process

A Step-by-Step Process

In the field of Microbiome analysis and blood pathology lab services, the quality of sample collection is crucial for producing accurate and reliable results. At Salient Bio, we have developed a highly efficient and precise sample collection process, adhering to strict guidelines and standards such as UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) to ensure sample integrity from collection through analysis. Today, we are going to provide an overview of the collection, preservation, and analysis procedures that form the backbone of the sample collection process here at Salient Bio.

Pre-collection Preparation

Salient Bio provides highly standardised, CE marked collection kits, which include all of the necessary tools to collect samples, such as vials, swabs, and transport containers. These kits are manufactured to comply with stringent UKAS standards, ensuring they meet the highest benchmarks for quality and consistency. Detailed instructions are provided with the kits to ensure that both medical professionals and patients (in the case of at-home collection) can collect the samples correctly. This reduces the likelihood of errors that could compromise the results.

The Collection Process

A core aspect of our collection process is its adherence to established protocols that ensure the integrity of the sample. Whether the sample is collected in a clinical setting, work environment or through an at-home kit, every step is designed to minimise contamination and ensure accuracy. Venous blood samples, for example, require the collection to be performed by trained professionals using sterile equipment and strict hygienic procedures. This ensures that the samples are free from external contaminants and ready for accurate analysis. In the case of other non-invasive samples, detailed guidelines are followed, including proper swabbing techniques and specific timings to ensure the sample's adequacy for analysis.

Preservation Techniques

One of the most critical stages in the sample collection process is preservation. Biological samples are often sensitive to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and time. Without proper preservation, samples can degrade, leading to compromised results. Salient Bio uses advanced preservation techniques, ensuring that samples remain stable from the moment they are collected until they reach the laboratory.

UKAS guidelines play a key role in how Salient Bio designs its preservation protocols. Blood samples, for example, are collected in tubes with anticoagulants that prevent clotting, while saliva or tissue samples are stored with stabilising agents that prevent degradation.

Transportation

Transportation is another critical element of the process. Salient Bio uses expedited shipping methods to ensure that samples reach our laboratory without delay, minimising the chances of degradation. UKAS-certified shipping protocols ensure that every sample is properly sealed, labelled, and tracked, reducing the likelihood of errors during transit.

Samples are packed in tamper-evident packaging to protect against contamination or mishandling. Each sample is also assigned a unique identifier to ensure traceability throughout the entire process.

Arrival at the lab

Once the sample arrives at the Salient Bio laboratory, the next phase begins: processing and analysis. Each sample is logged into a secure database, ensuring that its journey through the analysis pipeline is fully traceable. The lab follows stringent UKAS-accredited procedures to process the sample, ensuring accuracy in all tests.

The Salient Bio sample collection process is designed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every step—collection, preservation, transportation, and analysis—meets our stringent standards. By adhering to these protocols, we here at Salient Bio guarantee the integrity and reliability of our sample analysis, providing valuable data for both clinical diagnostics and advanced research.

Our Central London White Glove Pathology Services

We are conveniently situated in Bermondsey, London SE16. For London-based clients have benefit from our central London location to get Sample Collection Process carried out as expediently as possible.

Our full address is: Salient Bio The Biscuit Factory 100 Drummond Rd London SE16 4DG

Clinical Review: The information on this page has been reviewed for clinical accuracy by Dr. Marta Ciechonska Ph.D, microbiologist.