Specimens with confirmed positive results that are not challenged after receipt shall be discarded after how many days?

Specimens with confirmed positive results that are not challenged after receipt shall be discarded after how many days?

• A. 15 days
• B. 7 days
• C. 30 days
• D. 60 days

Answer: (A)

The concept here is how long a lab should keep a specimen after a positive result if no challenge is raised. Labs set a holding period during which the result can be re-verified or disputed. If no challenge is made within that window, the specimen is discarded to reduce biohazard risk, protect privacy, and manage storage and workflow. Fifteen days provides enough time for a clinician or the lab to request a recheck or clarification, while not keeping the specimen indefinitely. Shorter windows (like seven days) may not allow adequate review, and longer windows (thirty or sixty days) unnecessarily prolong storage of infectious material. If a challenge is filed within the window, disposal is paused until the issue is resolved; otherwise, the specimen is discarded after the period.

The concept here is how long a lab should keep a specimen after a positive result if no challenge is raised. Labs set a holding period during which the result can be re-verified or disputed. If no challenge is made within that window, the specimen is discarded to reduce biohazard risk, protect privacy, and manage storage and workflow.

Fifteen days provides enough time for a clinician or the lab to request a recheck or clarification, while not keeping the specimen indefinitely. Shorter windows (like seven days) may not allow adequate review, and longer windows (thirty or sixty days) unnecessarily prolong storage of infectious material.

If a challenge is filed within the window, disposal is paused until the issue is resolved; otherwise, the specimen is discarded after the period.