What is a potential consequence of sending cerebrospinal fluid specimens through the pneumatic tube system?

Sending cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens through a pneumatic tube system can lead to the specimen breaking down or getting misdirected. This is primarily due to the sensitive nature of CSF, which is critical for diagnostic testing. The pneumatic tube system may generate forces or conditions, such as turbulence or temperature changes, that can compromise the integrity of the specimen. CSF is particularly susceptible to alteration as it may contain cells and proteins that can be sensitive to environmental factors.

Additionally, the design of the pneumatic tube system can result in specimens being misrouted, especially if the labeling is not accurate or if there are issues with the tube's sorting mechanisms. Proper handling of CSF is crucial to ensure accurate diagnostic results, and any disruption in this process can lead to important clinical information being lost or invalidated. This understanding is critical for maintaining quality assurance in laboratory practices, particularly in areas involving delicate specimens.