The placenta should be sent for pathological examination in all cases of foetal death, and where possible for all early neonatal deaths. Cultures should be taken from the foetal surface of the placenta in cases of actual or suspected infection.
Wards/Theatre: Place fresh placenta in a biohazard bag labelled with patient's details and then into a pail labelled with the patient's details. Attach the request form to the pail and forward to Anatomical Pathology. |