What is a crucial factor to consider when handling and transporting specimens?

Temperature control is a crucial factor when handling and transporting specimens because many biological samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue, are highly sensitive to temperature changes. Maintaining the appropriate temperature is essential to preserve the integrity and viability of the specimens. For instance, certain specimens may need to be kept at refrigerated or frozen temperatures to prevent degradation or the growth of contaminants. If specimens are exposed to inappropriate temperatures, it can lead to inaccurate test results or the complete loss of the specimen's quality.

Other factors, such as specimen color, the time of day, and the type of transport vehicle, may play a role in specific contexts but do not have the same critical impact on the specimen's viability and test outcome as temperature control does. Ensuring that temperature is maintained within the required range is fundamental for accurate laboratory results and patient safety.