Order of Draw for a Serum Separator Tube: Importance and Proper Sequence

Summary

• The correct order of draw for a serum separator tube is crucial in a phlebotomy procedure to ensure accurate Test Results.
• Following the recommended order of draw reduces the risk of sample contamination and improves patient care.
• Understanding the proper sequence of tubes can help healthcare professionals maintain Quality Standards in clinical labs and hospitals.

Introduction

Phlebotomy is a critical aspect of healthcare that involves drawing blood samples from patients for diagnostic testing. It is essential for healthcare professionals to follow specific protocols to ensure the accuracy of Test Results and maintain patient safety. One key aspect of phlebotomy is the correct order of draw for different types of blood collection tubes, particularly the serum separator tube. In this article, we will discuss the proper order of draw for a serum separator tube in a typical phlebotomy procedure in the United States.

What is a Serum Separator Tube?

A serum separator tube, also known as a Tiger Top or Gold Top tube, is a type of blood collection tube used to obtain serum for various laboratory tests. This tube typically contains a gel separator that separates the blood cells from the serum after centrifugation. The serum can then be used for testing a wide range of analytes, including glucose, cholesterol, electrolytes, and other substances.

Why is the Order of Draw Important?

The order of draw is critical in phlebotomy to prevent sample contamination and ensure accurate Test Results. If blood collection tubes are not filled in the correct sequence, there is a risk of carryover between tubes, leading to inaccurate Test Results. By following the recommended order of draw, healthcare professionals can maintain the integrity of blood samples and reduce the likelihood of preanalytical errors.

The Correct Order of Draw for a Serum Separator Tube

1. Yellow (Sterile) Tube

1. The first tube to draw is the yellow or sterile tube, which is used for Blood Culture collection to detect infections.
2. It is important to draw the yellow tube before any other tubes to prevent contamination with the skin flora.

2. Light Blue Tube

1. The second tube in the order of draw is the light blue tube, which contains Sodium Citrate as an anticoagulant.
2. This tube is typically used for coagulation studies, such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time).

3. Serum Separator Tube (Gold or Tiger Top)

1. The third tube to draw is the serum separator tube, also known as the Gold or Tiger Top tube.
2. This tube does not contain an Anticoagulant and is used for a wide range of chemistry tests that require serum samples.
3. It is essential to fill the serum separator tube completely to ensure proper mixing with the gel separator.

4. Red Tube

1. The fourth tube in the order of draw is the red tube, which typically contains no additives.
2. Red tubes are used for various chemistry tests, including Blood Glucose, cholesterol, and liver function tests.

5. Green Tube

1. The fifth tube to draw is the green tube, which contains sodium Heparin as an anticoagulant.
2. Green tubes are used for tests that require plasma samples, such as electrolytes, ammonia, and STAT chemistries.

6. Lavender Tube

1. The sixth tube in the order of draw is the lavender tube, which contains EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) as an anticoagulant.
2. This tube is commonly used for Complete Blood Count (CBC) tests and blood bank studies.

7. Gray Tube

1. The final tube to draw is the gray tube, which contains an additive for glucose testing.
2. Gray tubes are used for glucose tolerance tests and other specialized chemistry tests.

Conclusion

Following the correct order of draw for a serum separator tube is essential in phlebotomy procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory Test Results. By following the recommended sequence of tubes, healthcare professionals can minimize the risk of sample contamination and maintain the Quality Standards of clinical labs and hospitals. Understanding the proper order of draw can help improve patient care and contribute to better healthcare outcomes.

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