Understanding the Standardized Order of Draw for Blood Collection Tubes: Importance and Guidelines

Summary

• Understanding the standardized order of draw for blood collection tubes is crucial in ensuring accurate Test Results and patient safety.
• In the United States, the recommended order of draw includes Blood Culture tubes, coagulation tubes, serum tubes, Heparin tubes, EDTA tubes, glycolytic inhibitor tubes, and fluoride tubes.
• Each tube type is used for specific tests, and following the correct order of draw helps prevent Cross-Contamination and ensures the integrity of the samples.

Introduction

When it comes to collecting blood samples for laboratory testing, healthcare professionals must follow a standardized order of draw to ensure accurate results and patient safety. In the United States, there is a specific sequence that Healthcare Providers must adhere to when collecting blood using different types of tubes. This article will outline the standardized order of draw for blood collection tubes and the corresponding tests commonly performed in clinical labs across the country.

Standardized Order of Draw

The standardized order of draw for blood collection tubes in the United States is as follows:

1. Blood Culture Tubes

1. These are the first tubes to be drawn to prevent contamination with bacteria from the skin.
2. Tests commonly performed with Blood Culture tubes include blood cultures to detect bacterial or fungal infections.

2. Coagulation Tubes

1. Coagulation tubes containing Sodium Citrate are used for coagulation studies.
2. Tests commonly performed with coagulation tubes include Prothrombin Time (PT), Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), and fibrinogen levels.

3. Serum Tubes

1. Serum tubes do not contain any anticoagulants and are used for various chemistry tests.
2. Tests commonly performed with serum tubes include basic metabolic panel (BMP), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), and liver function tests.

4. Heparin Tubes

1. Heparin tubes are coated with lithium Heparin or sodium Heparin and are used for plasma determinations.
2. Tests commonly performed with Heparin tubes include electrolyte levels, cardiac enzyme tests, and ammonia levels.

5. EDTA Tubes

1. EDTA tubes are used for hematology studies and cell counts.
2. Tests commonly performed with EDTA tubes include complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and blood typing.

6. Glycolytic Inhibitor Tubes

1. These tubes contain glycolytic inhibitors to prevent glucose metabolism by cells.
2. Tests commonly performed with glycolytic inhibitor tubes include glucose tests and blood alcohol levels.

7. Fluoride Tubes

1. Fluoride tubes contain Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate to preserve blood sugar levels.
2. Tests commonly performed with fluoride tubes include glucose tolerance tests and lactate levels.

Importance of Following the Standardized Order of Draw

Following the standardized order of draw for blood collection tubes is crucial for several reasons:

1. Prevents Cross-Contamination: Following the correct order helps prevent contamination of blood samples with additives from different tube types.
2. Ensures accurate Test Results: Using the appropriate tube for each test prevents interference from additives and preserves the integrity of the sample.
3. Promotes patient safety: Adhering to the standardized order of draw reduces the risk of misdiagnosis and ensures patients receive appropriate treatment based on accurate Test Results.

Conclusion

Understanding the standardized order of draw for blood collection tubes and the corresponding tests is essential for healthcare professionals working in clinical labs, hospitals, and home healthcare settings. By following the recommended sequence and using the appropriate tubes for specific tests, Healthcare Providers can ensure accurate results, prevent Cross-Contamination, and promote patient safety in the United States.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.

Related Videos