Department

Pathology & Laboratory Medicine

Accurate, timely diagnostics in histopathology, cytology, hematology, microbiology and clinical chemistry.

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Overview

The Pathology Department supports inpatient and outpatient care across the hospital with comprehensive anatomic pathology (biopsy & surgical specimens, cytology) and clinical pathology (chemistry, hematology, coagulation, microbiology, serology) services. Our team works closely with clinicians to deliver clear, clinically-actionable results.

  • Consultant pathologist oversight and multidisciplinary case correlation
  • Electronic reporting with critical-value alerts to attending teams
  • Quality systems with internal QC and participation in external assessments
At a glance
Avg. TAT (routine chemistry)2–4 hrs
Biopsy histology3–5 days
Fine-needle cytology24–48 hrs
View Test Menu

What we offer

Histopathology

Routine H&E, special stains, tumor margin status, and structured reports for biopsies & resections.

  • • Formalin-fixed tissue processing
  • • Special stains as indicated
  • • Second-opinion reviews (on request)
Cytology

FNAC, body fluids, Pap smears with clear diagnostic comments and follow-up recommendations.

  • • On-site adequacy (where feasible)
  • • Cell block prep (where indicated)
Clinical Chemistry

Metabolic panels, liver & renal function, cardiac markers with built-in quality control.

  • • STAT chemistry for emergencies
  • • Reflex testing protocols
Hematology & Coagulation

CBC with differentials, ESR, PT/INR, APTT and blood films reviewed when flagged.

  • • Critical value notification
  • • Peripheral smear correlation
Microbiology

Culture & sensitivity, Gram stain, AFB smear, malaria & stool microscopy.

  • • Antibiogram-guided reporting
  • • Infection control liaison
Reporting & Consultation

Clear, clinician-friendly reports with phone alerts for urgent or unexpected results.

  • • MDT participation (as scheduled)
  • • Teleconsult for external opinions

Sample Test Menu

Download Full Directory (PDF)
Test Specimen Container Routine TAT Notes
Complete Blood Count (CBC) Whole blood EDTA (purple) 1–2 hrs Mix gently; avoid clots
Liver Function Tests Serum / Plasma Plain/Serum or Heparin 2–4 hrs Fasting preferred where possible
Urinalysis (Routine) Midstream urine Sterile container 1 hr Deliver within 2 hrs of collection
Culture & Sensitivity Urine / Swab / Fluids Sterile container / Swab 48–72 hrs Antibiotics history helpful
Histopathology (Biopsy) Tissue 10% Neutral Buffered Formalin 3–5 days Label site & orientation where relevant
Pap Smear (Cervical Cytology) Cervical sample Liquid-based vial / Slides 24–48 hrs Avoid during active bleeding
Turnaround times (TAT) are estimates for routine workflow; urgent/STAT requests should be indicated on the form.

Specimen Collection Guidelines

Proper collection and handling ensures reliable results. Key points:

  • Use the correct container and fill to indicated volume.
  • Label with full name, hospital number, date/time, and specimen site.
  • Complete the laboratory request form with clinical details and clinician contact.
  • Transport promptly; maintain temperature per test requirements.
Download collection guide

Quality & Safety

We maintain rigorous internal quality controls and participate in recognized external quality assessments. Biosafety procedures protect patients and staff throughout the testing process.

24/7
Emergency cover
< 60 min
STAT chemistry
QC
Daily controls

Referrals & Reports

External clinicians may refer patients or submit specimens by attaching a completed request form and identification. Reports are shared electronically with options for clinician call-backs on critical values.

How to refer
  1. Download and complete the Laboratory Request Form.
  2. Label specimens correctly and include clinical notes.
  3. Deliver to the Pathology reception (Main Hospital, Ground Floor) or arrange a pickup.
Can I get urgent/STAT tests?
Yes. Please indicate STAT on the form and inform the laboratory by phone for prioritization.
How will I receive results?
Results are released electronically to the attending team; patients can collect printed copies at the lab desk with ID.
Do you accept insurance & SHA?
Yes. We support multiple insurers and Social Health Authority (SHA) packages per contract terms. Please confirm coverage at reception.
Operating Hours
  • Routine lab: Mon–Fri 7:00–19:00
  • Weekends/Public Holidays: 8:00–17:00
  • Emergency: 24/7 on-call
Contact

Pathology Reception, Main Hospital

Phone: +254 XXX XXX XXX

Email: lab@nazarethhospital.or.ke

Downloads
Need a test or biopsy?

Book an appointment or bring a clinician referral to our Pathology reception.

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