Room Prep for CMA
Preparing a Clinical Space for CMA Testing
Space, Layout and Infrastructure Requirements for CMA Labs
A Practical Guide for Autism Centers, Pediatric Clinics & Behavioral Health Programs
Preparing a space for a small genetics lab, specifically a CMA workflow room, is much simpler than most Autism Centers expect.
You do not need a full laboratory, expensive infrastructure or a large renovation budget.
You need a properly organized room, the correct workflow zones and a layout that supports consistent sample processing.
This guide explains how to prepare a space step-by-step so your team can perform CMA workflows efficiently and reliably.
1. Choose the Right Room
You do not need a large space. Most centers use 120–200 sq ft, though larger areas allow for multi-run workflows.
Select a room that is:
-
private and low-traffic
-
free from distractions
-
easy to secure
-
well-ventilated
-
large enough to create multiple zones
Offices, storage rooms, therapy rooms and unused administrative spaces often work perfectly.
2. Create Dedicated Workflow Zones
The strength of a CMA room is structure and consistency.
Divide the room into four essential zones:
Zone 1 - Intake & Verification
For receiving and labeling samples.
Zone 2 - Processing & Setup
Where the CMA workflow tasks are performed.
Zone 3 - Staging & Organization
A clean, structured area used to keep materials organized and sequenced.
Zone 4 - Completion & Reset
For final steps and preparing the room for the next run.
These zones keep the workflow predictable and reduce errors.
3. Organize the Room for Efficiency
To prepare the room, ensure:
-
worktables are sturdy and easy to clean
-
shelves or carts are placed near the workflow zones
-
supplies are stored in labeled bins
-
staff can move from zone to zone without backtracking
-
there is enough lighting for precision tasks
Even small adjustments can increase speed and accuracy.
4. Ensure Electrical & Power Access
CMA workflow equipment requires:
-
stable power
-
accessible outlets
-
surge protection (recommended)
You do not need special wiring or specialty electrical upgrades in most cases.
5. Prepare for Clean, Organized Operations
Before the room is used:
-
remove clutter
-
deep clean surfaces
-
apply organization systems
-
establish a reset routine
-
ensure the layout is clear and easy to follow
A well-prepared room improves turnaround time and reduces staff stress.
6. Plan for Staff Workflow & Movement
Room preparation must consider:
-
how staff enter and exit
-
handoff points between steps
-
placement of supplies
-
location of trash and disposal
-
ability to maintain clean sequences
Your space should support efficient, linear movement.
7. Use a Layout Designed by an Expert
AutismLabSetup.com designs CMA rooms based on:
-
the room’s square footage
-
available resources
-
staff experience
-
testing volume
-
future expansion plans
The right layout ensures your CMA workflow is fast, consistent, and compliant with best practices.
Ready to Prepare Your Space for a CMA Workflow Room?
If your center has a room, we can turn it into a functioning CMA workflow space quickly, efficiently and with minimal cost.
Your center delivers answers.
We help you deliver them faster.