Order Of Draw Procedure

Order of draw procedure is a critical process utilized by healthcare professionals when collecting blood samples from patients. It is essential to follow the correct order of draw to prevent sample contamination, ensure accurate test results, and avoid patient harm. In this article, we will discuss the importance of following the order of draw procedure, the steps involved, and tips for healthcare professionals to successfully implement this process.

Importance of Order of Draw Procedure

The order of draw procedure is crucial in ensuring the accuracy of test results and patient safety. When blood samples are collected for multiple tests, it is important to follow a specific order to prevent cross-contamination between different blood collection tubes. Failure to follow the correct order of draw can lead to inaccurate test results, misdiagnosis, and potential harm to patients. By adhering to the order of draw procedure, healthcare professionals can minimize the risk of errors and ensure the reliability of laboratory tests.

Steps in Order of Draw Procedure

There are specific steps involved in the order of draw procedure that healthcare professionals must follow when collecting blood samples. These steps help maintain the integrity of the samples and ensure accurate test results. The general order of draw procedure is as follows:

1. Verify the patient's identity and prepare the necessary blood collection equipment.
2. Apply a tourniquet to the patient's arm to locate the vein for blood collection.
3. Perform hand hygiene and put on gloves to prevent contamination.
4. Insert the needle into the vein and begin collecting blood samples in the specified order.
5. Fill each blood collection tube in the correct order to avoid contamination.
6. Remove the tourniquet and needle from the patient's arm once all samples have been collected.
7. Label each blood collection tube with the patient's information and the time of collection.
8. Dispose of the used needles and blood collection tubes in the appropriate sharps container.

Tips for Successful Implementation

Implementing the order of draw procedure effectively requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. Healthcare professionals can follow these tips to ensure successful implementation of the order of draw procedure:

1. Use the correct blood collection tubes

It is essential to use the appropriate blood collection tubes for each test to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results. Be familiar with the different types of blood collection tubes and their uses to select the right tubes for each test.

2. Pay attention to the order of draw

Follow the specified order of draw when collecting blood samples for multiple tests. Start with the tubes used for coagulation tests, followed by serum tubes, plasma tubes, and finally tubes containing additives.

3. Mix blood samples gently

After collecting blood samples, gently invert the tubes to mix the blood with any additives or anticoagulants. Avoid shaking the tubes vigorously, as this can cause hemolysis and affect test results.

4. Label blood collection tubes accurately

Ensure that each blood collection tube is labeled correctly with the patient's information and the time of collection. Proper labeling helps prevent mix-ups and ensures that test results are attributed to the correct patient.

5. Dispose of sharps and waste properly

Dispose of used needles and blood collection tubes in designated sharps containers to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of needlestick injuries. Follow best practices for waste disposal to maintain a safe and clean work environment.

Conclusion

The order of draw procedure is a critical process that healthcare professionals must follow when collecting blood samples from patients. By adhering to the correct order of draw, healthcare professionals can prevent sample contamination, ensure accurate test results, and maintain patient safety. It is essential to follow the steps involved in the order of draw procedure and implement best practices to minimize the risk of errors and improve the reliability of laboratory tests.

References:

1. https://www.aacc.org/science-and-research/science-and-research-institute/order-of-draw
2. https://acutecaretesting.org/en/articles/order-of-blood-draw-in-phlebotomy
3. https://www.labce.com/spg681380_order_of_draw.aspx

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