What information must be included on a chain-of-custody form?

What information must be included on a chain-of-custody form?

• A. Donor identity, specimen ID, collection date/time, collector, seal number, transfers with dates/times/signatures, and observed anomalies
• B. Donor identity
• C. Collection date/time
• D. Temperature readings

Answer: (A)

Chain-of-custody forms establish a continuous, verifiable trail of who handled the specimen and when. The most complete set of information ensures accountability and preserves the sample’s integrity from collection to result. Donor identity ties the sample to the correct person, and a unique specimen ID prevents mix-ups between samples. Recording collection date and time anchors when the sample was obtained, while the collector’s identity provides a witness to the collection event. A seal number adds tamper-evidence for the container, so any break in the seal can be detected. Documenting every transfer of possession with dates, times, and signatures creates a chain showing who had the sample at each step and when, which is crucial if the sample ever needs to be traced or questioned. Noting observed anomalies captures any irregularities that might affect validity, such as label inconsistencies or seal damage, allowing timely review and remediation. Temperature readings can be important in some protocols for specimen preservation, but they are not the core elements needed to establish an auditable chain of custody; they may appear in separate documentation focused on storage conditions rather than the custody trail itself.