The role of a sentinel laboratory is to utilize standardized testing protocols to rule-out critical biological agents and refer them to one of the Laboratory Response Network (LRN) reference laboratories, such as public health laboratories, for confirmation.
In the event that a potential agent of bioterrorism is suspected, the appropriate internal staff should be notified and then contact your LRN reference laboratory.
The sentinel laboratory should NOT:
- Make the decision that a bioterrorism event has occurred
- Contact law enforcement or public health officials
