How should a cassette be labeled according to standard procedures?

Labeling a cassette according to standard procedures is crucial for ensuring accurate tracking and identification of specimens in laboratory settings. The chosen answer, which includes "surgical/autopsy, year, and case number," aligns with guidelines that emphasize detailed and systematic identification of specimens. This comprehensive approach enables laboratory staff to quickly associate the tissue sample with the corresponding patient and ensure that it is handled appropriately throughout processing.

The inclusion of the surgical or autopsy designation is vital because it helps distinguish the type of procedure from which the specimen was derived. Additionally, incorporating the year is important for record-keeping and avoiding potential errors related to specimens collected across different years. The case number is a unique identifier that links the cassette to a specific patient and procedure, thus minimizing the possibility of mix-ups with other samples.

Standard procedures necessitate this level of detail to maintain quality assurance and facilitate accurate reporting and tracking of specimens, which is essential for patient safety and effective medical diagnoses.