Accessioning a specimen involves what?

Accessing a specimen is a critical step in the laboratory process that ensures proper identification and tracking of samples. The correct answer encompasses multiple essential tasks: connecting the specimen with the correct individual, assigning it a unique identifier (ID), and recording the order in which it was received.

By connecting the specimen to the correct individual, the lab ensures that results can be accurately attributed to the right patient, which is vital for patient safety and effective medical decision-making. Assigning a unique ID prevents mix-ups between samples and helps in the efficient organization and retrieval of specimens within the lab system.

Recording the order in which specimens are received establishes a chronological tracking mechanism that can aid in prioritizing testing and managing workflows in the lab. All these steps together enhance the integrity, accuracy, and reliability of laboratory results, making them essential for high-quality patient care.

The other options either lack completeness or do not address all necessary aspects of the accessioning process, making them less effective in ensuring robust specimen management.