Blood Collection Tubes And Laboratory Safety.

Article

Apr 7

Working in a laboratory comes with its own set of risks and challenges. One of the critical aspects of lab work is handling blood collection tubes safely. Blood collection tubes are used to collect blood samples from patients for various diagnostic tests. In this article, we will explore the different types of blood collection tubes and discuss important safety measures that should be observed when handling them.

Types of Blood Collection Tubes

There are several types of blood collection tubes used in laboratories, each designed for specific purposes. Some of the most common types include:

Plain Tubes: These tubes do not contain any additives and are used for collecting blood samples for serum tests.
EDTA Tubes: These tubes contain the anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and are used for collecting blood samples for hematological tests.
Gel Tubes: These tubes contain a gel separator that separates the serum or plasma from the cells after centrifugation.

Handling Blood Collection Tubes Safely

Proper handling of blood collection tubes is essential to ensure accurate test results and prevent contamination. Here are some important safety measures to keep in mind:

1. Labeling

Always make sure to label each blood collection tube with the patient's information, including their name, date of birth, and time of collection. This helps to prevent mix-ups and ensures the integrity of the sample.

2. Proper Storage

Store blood collection tubes in the appropriate conditions as specified by the manufacturer. Improper storage can affect the integrity of the samples and lead to inaccurate test results.

3. Avoiding Contamination

When handling blood collection tubes, it is crucial to avoid contamination by wearing gloves and following proper aseptic techniques. Contaminated samples can lead to erroneous test results and compromise patient care.

4. Transporting Tubes

When transporting blood collection tubes from the collection site to the laboratory, make sure to secure the tubes properly to prevent breakage or leakage. Use transport containers that are designed to maintain the integrity of the samples during transit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are several common mistakes that are often made when handling blood collection tubes. By being aware of these mistakes, you can ensure the accuracy of test results and maintain laboratory safety. Some of the common mistakes to avoid include:

1. Using Expired Tubes

Using expired blood collection tubes can lead to inaccurate test results due to potential degradation of additives. Always check the expiration date on the tubes before use and discard any expired tubes.

2. Incorrect Mixing

Proper mixing of blood samples with additives is crucial to ensure accurate test results. Failure to mix the sample adequately can result in improper anticoagulation or incorrect separation of serum/plasma.

3. Overfilling Tubes

Overfilling blood collection tubes can lead to hemolysis, which can affect the integrity of the sample and compromise test results. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for filling volumes to prevent overfilling.

Conclusion

Handling blood collection tubes safely is essential for accurate diagnostic testing and patient care. By following proper safety measures, such as labeling, proper storage, and avoiding contamination, laboratory professionals can ensure the integrity of blood samples and maintain a safe working environment. Remember to always check the manufacturer's instructions for handling blood collection tubes and stay informed about best practices in laboratory safety.

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Lauren Davis, BS, CPT

Lauren Davis is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Miami. With 5 years of hands-on experience in both hospital and mobile phlebotomy settings, Lauren has developed a passion for ensuring the safety and comfort of patients during blood draws. She has extensive experience in pediatric, geriatric, and inpatient phlebotomy, and is committed to advancing the practices of blood collection to improve both accuracy and patient satisfaction.

Lauren enjoys writing about the latest phlebotomy techniques, patient communication, and the importance of adhering to best practices in laboratory safety. She is also an advocate for continuing education in the field and frequently conducts workshops to help other phlebotomists stay updated with industry standards.