The purpose of all laboratory services is to provide the most accurate and error-free results possible. At all times, the lab employs the most current methodology, in-dated reagents, and competent individuals available. The physician initiates all orders for tests in all of the seven laboratory categories. These are Histopathology, Chemistry, Autologous Blood Bank, Microbiology, Serology, Hematology, and Cytology.
If you would like to make an appointment for a test, or you want to receive test result information, please call 456-9116 ext. 2371 or ext. 2373.
Histopathology
Histopathology is the study of disease, particularly the structural and functional changes in tissues of the body, which leads to or is caused by disease. Tissue specimens are referred to us from surgical procedures performed in the hospital (operating or endoscopy suite) or doctor's office. We also process tissue specimens obtained from an autopsy performed at Windham Hospital. Both surgical and post-mortem specimens are delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible after removal. The tissue is them given an accession number and is carefully examined by the pathologist. A pathologist is trained in the recognition and diagnosis of both normal and diseased tissues. The Histology Technician is then responsible for the preparation and staining of the surgical and autopsy tissue sections to prepare them for microscopic examination. The Technician then delivers the finished sections to the pathologist in a folder accompanied by the laboratory record (protocol). A final diagnostic report is dictated and submit ted to the attending physician enabling him to determine further treatment of the patient.
Chemistry
The Chemistry Laboratory offers an extensive range of routine and special tests designed to help in screening patients as well as aid in disease management strategies. Using highly automated, state of the art instrumentation, results are conveyed to Clinicians rapidly and accurately.
Autologous Blood Bank
When a person will be undergoing surgery and anticipates that a blood transfusion might be necessary, they can donate blood for his or her own use. Autologous Blood Donation refers to the process whereby the patient provides his or her own blood. Patients are only recommended to do this if they are generally healthy, over seventeen years of age, and over 110 pounds. This method is beneficial for two reasons: it guarantees the patient available blood for a transfusion if necessary and it eliminates the possibility that their body would reject the foreign blood. Autologous donations for an upcoming surgical procedure can be made through the Blood Bank by appointment only.
Microbiology
The primary role of the Microbiology Department is the timely detection and identification of pathogenic microorganisms when found in association with an infectious disease process. In addition to traditional cultural methods, we also employ non-cultural methods and direct microscopic means to detecting these infectious agents. When the microbiology staff receives a specimen, they must find and remove any pathogens that are present. Then, they test the pathogen and determine how to destroy it. Even though today we have extremely sophisticated technology and miraculous antibiotics, some pathogens can adapt very quickly to these antibiotics. For this reason, the Microbiology department is crucial in detecting these harmful agents.
Serology
The mission of the Serology laboratory services is to provide timely and accurate diagnosis of viral diseases. The Serology section uses a variety of methodologies to test sera for the presence of antibodies to viral pathogens. Specimens are collected after a test and forwarded to the lab specimen processing area. Test result reports are generally available by 3:00pm on the day the test is performed. Tests that are performed include Chlamydia and Respiratory Synctial Virus.
Hematology
Excellence is research is synonymous with the division of Hematology. Directed by pathologist Lisa Laird and supervisor Gerry Williams, the Windham Community Memorial Hospital's Hematology department offers a wide variety of services including general hematology, coagulation, clinical microscopy (urinalysis), body fluid analysis, blood parasite identification, and assistance with bone marrow aspirates. For specific information on any of the services listed above please call 456- 6738.
Cytology
Shelia Guyot, BA CT (ASCP): Supervisor
456-6736
The lab is fully staffed Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm; a pathologist is available 24 hours a day
Cytology is a branch of laboratory technology that involves the detection and diagnosis of malignant and benign diseases. The staff can detect these diseases through the microscopic evaluation of cellular samples from various body sites. One popular area of Cytology is the evaluation of gynecologic samples, more commonly called a Pap Smear.
Hours of Operation
The labs are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The labs are fully staffed Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm
The outpatient lab is open Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 8:00am - 11:30am
|
