What are the potential consequences of improper specimen labeling?

Improper specimen labeling can have serious ramifications for patient care. When specimens are not labeled accurately, it increases the risk of misdiagnosis, as the laboratory may process the sample under incorrect patient information. This can lead to inappropriate treatment decisions, where a patient might be prescribed the wrong medication or receive treatments for conditions they do not actually have.

Furthermore, compromised patient safety is a critical consequence because the possibility of delays in receiving the right diagnosis or treatment increases. If test results do not correspond to the right patient, not only does it jeopardize their health, but it can also lead to a breakdown of trust between patients and healthcare providers.

In contrast, the other options reflect outcomes that are not associated with improper labeling. Increased laboratory efficiency, accurate results, patient trust, and reduced testing time are all reliant on proper specimen labeling to ensure that the right tests are done on the right samples. Therefore, proper labeling is essential to maintain high standards in laboratory practice and patient safety.