The Importance of Proper Order of Draw and Tube Colors in Blood Sample Collection

Summary

• Proper order of draw is crucial in collecting blood samples to avoid contamination and inaccurate Test Results.
• The order of draw helps maintain Sample Integrity and ensures accurate diagnoses in clinical labs and hospitals.
• Following the correct order of draw and using the corresponding tube colors is essential for Healthcare Providers to provide quality patient care.

Introduction

In a medical laboratory setting, collecting blood samples is a routine procedure performed to diagnose, monitor, and treat various medical conditions. To ensure the accuracy of Test Results and prevent sample contamination, Healthcare Providers must follow the proper order of draw and use the corresponding tube colors when collecting blood samples.

Why is the Proper Order of Draw Important?

The proper order of draw is crucial in collecting blood samples for several reasons:

1. Prevents contamination: Following the correct order of draw helps prevent sample contamination by avoiding carryover of additives or anticoagulants from one tube to another.
2. Ensures accurate Test Results: Using the proper order of draw minimizes the risk of inaccurate Test Results due to Cross-Contamination or improper Sample Handling.
3. Maintains Sample Integrity: Properly collecting blood samples in the correct order of draw helps maintain Sample Integrity, allowing Healthcare Providers to make accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions.

What is the Proper Order of Draw?

The proper order of draw refers to the sequence in which different blood collection tubes should be filled during Venipuncture. The following is the recommended order of draw and corresponding tube colors for collecting blood samples in a medical laboratory setting in the United States:

Order of Draw and Tube Colors

1. Yellow or Light Blue: Blood cultures – Yellow (BD or SPS) tubes are used for blood cultures, while light blue (Sodium Citrate) tubes are used for coagulation studies.
2. Red: Serum tubes – Red-top tubes are used for chemistry tests, immunology, and serology.
3. Light Green or Green: Plasma tubes – Light green (PST) or green (Heparin) tubes are used for chemistry tests, STAT chemistry, and electrolytes.
4. Lavender or Purple: EDTA tubes – Lavender (EDTA) tubes are used for hematology tests, blood bank studies, and routine blood typing.
5. Gray: Glucose tubes – Gray-top tubes are used for glucose testing and alcohol levels.
6. Other Specialized Tubes: Additional tubes, such as royal blue (trace metal analysis), tan (lead analysis), or light yellow (DNA studies), may be used for specific tests as needed.

Key Takeaways

Following the proper order of draw and using the corresponding tube colors is essential for Healthcare Providers in clinical labs and hospitals. By adhering to the recommended sequence of blood collection tubes, healthcare professionals can ensure Sample Integrity, prevent contamination, and obtain accurate Test Results for optimal patient care.

Remember, each tube color serves a specific purpose and contains different additives or anticoagulants to preserve the integrity of blood samples and ensure accurate Test Results. By understanding and following the proper order of draw, Healthcare Providers can maintain high standards of quality and safety in blood sample collection and analysis.

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