NCSLPH Basics
This laboratory provides specialized testing and scientific support for disease surveillance and outbreak response statewide.
What is the North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health?
This form must accompany most specimens submitted to NCSLPH.
What is the test request / submission form?
This molecular method is commonly used at NCSLPH to detect pathogens.
What is PCR?
This NCSLPH program screens newborns for serious but treatable conditions.
What is Newborn Screening?
This federal regulation ensures quality laboratory testing.
What is CLIA?
NCSLPH operates within this state agency.
NCDHHS
Specimens should arrive at NCSLPH within this timeframe after collection, when possible.
What is within 72 hours
This respiratory virus is closely monitored by NCSLPH during respiratory season.
What is influenza?
This element in drinking water is routinely tested to protect children’s health.
What is lead?
NCSLPH follows these to ensure accurate and reliable results.
What are quality assurance/quality control procedures?
NCSLPH provides laboratory services to local health departments in all of these jurisdictions.
What are all 100 NC counties
This temperature range is required for most refrigerated specimens sent to NCSLPH.
What is 2–8°C?
NCSLPH performs confirmatory testing for this rash-causing viral disease.
What is measles?
Newborn screening specimens are typically collected using this method.
What is a heel stick / dried blood spot?
This process evaluates a lab’s performance by comparing results to other labs.
What is proficiency testing?
When is 2004?
This triple-layer system is required for shipping infectious substances.
What is triple packaging?
This specimen type is used in addition to NP swabs for measles testing.
What is urine?
Environmental testing at NCSLPH helps identify risks related to this essential resource.
What is water?
This biosafety level is commonly used for many routine public health tests.
What is BSL-2?
During outbreaks and public health emergencies, NCSLPH supports response efforts by doing this.
What is confirming cases and supporting disease surveillance?
Improper labeling or shipping can result in this outcome.
What is specimen rejection or testing delay?
This laboratory function helps identify emerging disease trends across North Carolina.
What is surveillance testing?
Timely newborn screening results are critical because early treatment can do this.
What is prevent serious illness, disability, or death?
This role oversees compliance, testing quality, and laboratory operations.
Who is the Laboratory Director?