Order of Draw Importance for Blood Sample Collection with Gold SST Tube
Summary
- Proper order of draw is crucial for accurate blood sample collection
- Gold SST Tube is commonly used in clinical labs for various tests
- Following recommended order of draw with gold SST Tube ensures integrity of samples
Introduction
When it comes to collecting blood samples in a medical lab setting in the United States, following the recommended order of draw is essential. This is especially true when using a gold SST Tube, which is a common choice for various tests. In this article, we will explore the importance of the order of draw and provide guidelines for collecting blood samples with a gold SST Tube.
Why is Order of Draw Important?
The order of draw refers to the sequence in which different blood tubes are collected during a blood draw procedure. Following the proper order of draw is critical for several reasons:
- Prevents Cross-Contamination: Certain additives in blood collection tubes can interfere with Test Results if mixed improperly. Following the correct order of draw minimizes the risk of Cross-Contamination between tubes.
- Ensures accurate Test Results: By following the recommended order of draw, the integrity of the blood samples is maintained, which helps in obtaining accurate Test Results.
- Patient safety: Proper order of draw helps reduce the likelihood of sample hemolysis or clotting, which can lead to inaccurate Test Results and potentially harm the patient.
Recommended Order of Draw for Gold SST Tube
The gold SST Tube, also known as a serum separator tube, is commonly used in clinical labs for various blood tests that require serum samples. When using a gold SST Tube, the recommended order of draw is as follows:
- Yellow or SPS tube for Blood Culture tests: This helps prevent contamination of the Blood Culture sample with additives from other tubes.
- Light blue tube for coagulation studies: Coagulation studies are sensitive to contamination, so it is important to draw this tube early in the process.
- Red tube for non-additive or Clot Activator: Red tubes are used for chemistry tests that do not require additives or clot activators.
- Gold SST Tube for serum tests: The gold SST Tube is typically used for a wide range of chemistry tests that require serum samples.
- Green tube for lithium Heparin or PST: Green tubes are used for various chemistry tests that require plasma samples.
- Lavender tube for EDTA: Lavender tubes are used for hematology tests that require EDTA as an anticoagulant.
- Gray tube for glucose preservative: Gray tubes are used for tests that require glucose preservative, such as glucose tolerance tests.
Best Practices for Blood Sample Collection
In addition to following the recommended order of draw, there are several best practices to ensure successful blood sample collection with a gold SST Tube:
Proper patient identification:
Always verify the patient's identity before collecting a blood sample to prevent mix-ups.
Use a new needle and tube for each draw:
Do not reuse needles or tubes to avoid contamination and ensure Sample Integrity.
Follow aseptic technique:
Clean the Venipuncture site thoroughly and use proper techniques to minimize the risk of infection.
Label tubes correctly:
Label each tube with the patient's name, date, and time of collection to prevent errors in the lab.
Handle samples properly:
Handle blood samples gently to prevent hemolysis and avoid sample clots.
Transport samples promptly:
Deliver blood samples to the lab as soon as possible to ensure timely processing and accurate results.
Conclusion
Following the recommended order of draw for collecting blood samples with a gold SST Tube is essential for accurate and reliable Test Results. By adhering to the proper sequence and best practices outlined in this article, healthcare professionals can ensure the integrity of blood samples and improve patient outcomes.
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