Handling And Storage Advice On Collection Tubes

Article

Apr 7

Collection tubes are an essential tool in the medical field, used for collecting blood, urine, and other bodily fluids for testing and analysis. Proper handling and storage of these tubes are crucial to ensuring accurate and reliable test results. In this article, we will provide valuable advice on the proper handling and storage of collection tubes to maintain their integrity and preserve the samples inside.

Importance of Proper Handling and Storage

Collection tubes are designed to preserve the integrity of the samples they contain, but improper handling and storage can compromise the quality of the samples and lead to inaccurate test results. It is essential to follow best practices when handling and storing collection tubes to ensure the reliability of the tests being performed.

Proper Handling

Proper handling of collection tubes begins from the moment they are received until the samples are processed for testing. Here are some tips for handling collection tubes:

Avoid shaking or agitating the tubes excessively, as this can cause hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells) and affect the test results.
Do not remove the caps from the tubes until ready to collect the sample, as this can lead to contamination.
Always label the tubes with the patient's information, including name, date of birth, and other relevant details, to prevent mix-ups.
Store the tubes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to maintain the stability of the samples.

Proper Storage

Proper storage of collection tubes is critical to preserving the integrity of the samples and ensuring accurate test results. Here are some guidelines for storing collection tubes:

Store the tubes upright in a rack or holder to prevent leakage or contamination of the samples.
Keep the tubes tightly capped to prevent evaporation or leakage of the samples.
Store the tubes at the appropriate temperature recommended by the manufacturer or testing facility to maintain sample stability.

Types of Collection Tubes

There are several types of collection tubes used in the medical field, each designed for specific tests and sample types. It is essential to understand the differences between these tubes and follow specific handling and storage guidelines for each type. Here are some common types of collection tubes:

Serum Separator Tubes

Serum separator tubes contain a gel separator that separates the serum from the blood cells after centrifugation. These tubes are used for collecting blood samples for serum testing and should be allowed to clot for a specific amount of time before centrifugation. Proper handling and storage of serum separator tubes are essential to prevent contamination and ensure accurate test results.

EDTA Tubes

EDTA tubes contain the anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), which prevents blood clotting by chelating calcium ions. These tubes are used for collecting blood samples for hematological tests, such as complete blood count (CBC). Proper handling and storage of EDTA tubes are crucial to prevent clotting or hemolysis of the samples.

Heparin Tubes

Heparin tubes contain the anticoagulant heparin, which prevents blood clotting by inhibiting thrombin. These tubes are used for collecting blood samples for various tests, including plasma tests and blood gas analysis. Proper handling and storage of heparin tubes are necessary to ensure accurate test results and prevent clotting or contamination of the samples.

Best Practices for Handling and Storage

Following best practices for handling and storage of collection tubes is essential to maintaining sample integrity and ensuring accurate test results. Here are some additional tips for proper handling and storage of collection tubes:

Quality Control

Perform regular quality control checks on collection tubes to ensure they meet the necessary standards for sample collection and storage. This includes checking for leaks, expiration dates, and proper labeling of the tubes.

Training

Ensure that healthcare professionals who handle collection tubes are properly trained on the correct procedures for collecting, handling, and storing samples. Provide ongoing training and education to staff to reinforce best practices and ensure compliance with guidelines.

Documentation

Keep detailed records of sample collection, handling, and storage procedures to track the chain of custody and ensure traceability of the samples. Proper documentation is essential for maintaining sample integrity and complying with regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Proper handling and storage of collection tubes are essential to ensuring the reliability and accuracy of test results. By following best practices for handling and storage, healthcare professionals can maintain the integrity of samples and preserve the quality of patient care. It is important to understand the specific requirements for each type of collection tube and adhere to guidelines for handling and storage to minimize the risk of errors and ensure the validity of test results.

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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.