LIMS Sample Separation
Sample separation (also called aliquoting or sample splitting) is the process of dividing a single collected sample into two or more sub-samples so that different tests can be run on separate aliquots — for example, sending one portion to biochemistry and another to haematology from a single blood draw.
Use sample separation when:
- A patient's sample needs to be analysed on instruments in different departments that require their own labelled containers.
- The volume of the original sample is sufficient to split without affecting any individual test.
- The lab's workflow routes specific test types to specific analyzers that each need their own barcoded tube.
If all tests can be run from a single container without splitting, separation is not necessary.
- Go to Menu > Lab > Sample Management or the Laboratory Dashboard > Samples tab.
- Search for the investigation or sample by bill barcode, patient name, or sample status.
- Select the investigation you want to separate.
- Click Separate Sample (or Divide Sample).
- The system creates one or more sub-sample records, each with its own barcode.
- Print the new barcode stickers for each sub-sample container using the Print Sticker button next to each sub-sample.
- Pour or pipette the sample into the sub-sample containers and attach the correct sticker to each.
- Each sub-sample can now be sent to a different department or placed on a different analyzer rack.
After separation, the original investigation's status moves to Sample Separated (or Separate and Barcode Generated, depending on configuration). Each sub-sample appears as a linked record in the system and follows the standard reception and acceptance workflow at its destination department.
Once separated:
- Each sub-sample barcode is scanned at the receiving department.
- The receiving technician accepts the sub-sample using the same sample reception process.
- Results from each department are entered against the same patient investigation record — the system consolidates them into one report.
Whether sample separation is allowed — and at what stage of the workflow it can be performed — is controlled by the lab administrator. The setting "Allow a sample to be separated in any status" determines whether separation can only happen before the sample is received, or also after.
If the Separate Sample button is not visible or is disabled for an investigation, contact your lab administrator.
- Label sub-sample containers immediately after pouring — never leave unlabelled aliquots on the bench.
- Verify that the volume of each sub-sample is sufficient for the tests assigned to it before dispatching to the department.
- For time-sensitive tests (e.g., blood gas, coagulation), complete the separation as quickly as possible to avoid sample degradation.