Proper Use Of Blood Collection Tubes
Blood collection tubes are an essential tool in the medical field, used to collect and transport blood samples for laboratory testing. It is crucial to understand the proper use of these tubes to ensure accurate and reliable test results. In this article, we will explore the different types of blood collection tubes, the correct order of draw, and tips for handling and transporting blood samples.
Types of Blood Collection Tubes
There are several types of blood collection tubes, each designed for specific tests and analytes. Some common types include:
1. Serum Tubes
Serum tubes are used to collect blood samples for tests that require serum, such as chemistry panels and hormone tests. These tubes typically contain a clot activator and gel separator to separate the serum from the blood cells after centrifugation.
2. EDTA Tubes
EDTA tubes are used for tests that require whole blood or plasma, such as complete blood counts (CBC) and blood bank testing. These tubes contain EDTA (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) as an anticoagulant to prevent clotting.
3. Plain Tubes
Plain tubes do not contain any additives and are used for tests that do not require anticoagulants or clot activators, such as blood typing and crossmatching.
4. Heparin Tubes
Heparin tubes contain lithium or sodium heparin as an anticoagulant and are used for tests that require plasma, such as coagulation studies and some chemistry tests.
Correct Order of Draw
The order in which blood collection tubes are filled is crucial to prevent cross-contamination and ensure accurate test results. The recommended order of draw is as follows:
- Yellow or sterile blood culture tubes
- Light blue tubes for coagulation studies
- Red or gold-colored serum tubes
- Green tubes for heparinized plasma
- Lavender or purple tubes for EDTA whole blood
- Gray tubes for glucose testing
Following the correct order of draw helps minimize the risk of sample contamination and ensures the integrity of the blood samples.
Tips for Handling and Transporting Blood Samples
Proper handling and transportation of blood samples are essential to maintain sample integrity and ensure accurate test results. Here are some tips to follow when collecting, handling, and transporting blood samples:
1. Label each tube correctly
Make sure to label each blood collection tube with the patient's name, date of birth, and collection time to prevent sample mix-ups.
2. Mix the tubes gently
After collection, gently invert the tubes several times to ensure thorough mixing of the blood with any additives or anticoagulants.
3. Store the samples at the appropriate temperature
Depending on the test requirements, blood samples may need to be stored at room temperature, in a refrigerator, or on ice. Be sure to follow the specific storage instructions for each test.
4. Transport the samples to the laboratory promptly
Blood samples should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection to minimize the risk of sample degradation.
5. Follow proper safety precautions
When handling blood samples, it is important to follow standard safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and disposing of sharps properly.By following these tips and guidelines for the proper use of blood collection tubes, healthcare professionals can ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory test results. Remember to always refer to the specific instructions provided by the laboratory or test manufacturer for each type of blood collection tube and test.For more information on blood collection tubes and laboratory testing, please visit the following resources:- Guide to Blood Collection Tubes- CDC Tube Colors- AACC Blood Collection Tubes
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