Sample collection devices and methods using markers and the use of such markers as controls in sample validation, laboratory evaluation and/or accreditation

A method for marking a sample, comprising collecting the sample using a collection device having at least one detectable non-nucleic acid marker which is contained in at least a portion of the collecting device, wherein the at least one detectable non-nucleic acid marker is other than a component which is already present in the sample and is inert to any component present in the sample, and causing the sample to contact the at least one detectable non-nucleic acid marker to pass at least a portion of the at least one detectable non-nucleic acid marker into the sample to mark the sample;

• and wherein at least a portion of the detectable non-nucleic acid marker passes into all of a collected sample upon collection of the sample, and the non-nucleic acid marker is detectable in any portion of any sample that has been collected in the collecting means.

A method of marking a human body fluid or tissue sample to confirm an identity of the sample at a later date, the method comprising:

• collecting the sample using a collection device having at least one detectable marker which is contained in at least a portion of the collecting device, wherein the at least one detectable marker is other than a component which is already present in the sample and is inert to any component present in the sample, and causing the sample to contact the at least one detectable marker to pass at least a portion of the at least one detectable marker into the sample to mark the sample,
• wherein the collection device comprises identifying means for identifying both of the identity and the amount of the at least one detectable marker so that one can confirm the identity of the second sample at a later date by comparing the at least one detectable marker in the sample and the identifying means;
• and wherein at least a portion of the detectable marker passes into all of a collected sample upon collection of the sample, and the marker is detectable in any portion of any sample that has been collected in the collecting means.