Proper Order of Draw and Tube Additives in Clinical Laboratory Setting in the United States

Summary

• The proper order of draw is essential for collecting blood samples in a clinical laboratory setting in the United States.
• Various tube additives are used for different types of tests, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
• Understanding the order of draw and tube additives is crucial for healthcare professionals to maintain the integrity of blood samples.

Introduction

In a clinical laboratory setting, proper blood sample collection is crucial for accurate and reliable Test Results. The order of draw refers to the sequence in which blood tubes are filled during the phlebotomy process. Each tube contains specific additives that help preserve the integrity of the blood sample and ensure accurate Test Results.

Importance of Proper Order of Draw

The proper order of draw is essential for several reasons:

1. Prevents Cross-Contamination: Using the correct order of draw reduces the risk of sample contamination, ensuring accurate Test Results.
2. Preserves Sample Integrity: Certain additives in blood collection tubes help maintain the quality of the sample and prevent clotting or hemolysis.
3. Ensures accurate results: Following the proper order of draw and using the appropriate tube additives help healthcare professionals obtain reliable Test Results.

Common Blood Collection Tubes and Additives

There are various types of blood collection tubes used in clinical laboratories, each with specific additives designed for different types of tests. Some common tube additives include:

1. EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid): Used for hematology tests such as complete blood count (CBC) and blood typing.
2. SST (Serum Separator Tube): Contains a gel that separates serum from blood cells, ideal for chemistry tests.
3. Heparin: Prevents blood clotting and is used for some chemistry tests and blood gas analysis.

Proper Order of Draw

The proper order of draw for collecting blood samples in a clinical laboratory setting in the United States is as follows:

1. Yellow tube (SPS): Used for blood cultures to prevent contamination.
2. Light blue tube (Sodium Citrate): Used for coagulation studies such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT).
3. Red tube (No Additive): Used for serum tests like glucose and cholesterol.
4. Gold or Tiger Top tube (SST): Contains a gel separator and is used for chemistry tests such as liver function and lipid profiles.
5. Green tube (Heparin): Used for chemistry tests like electrolytes and basic metabolic panels.
6. Lavender tube (EDTA): Used for hematology tests including CBC and Blood Smears.
7. Gray tube (Oxalate/Fluoride): Used for glucose testing to prevent glycolysis.

Conclusion

Understanding the proper order of draw and the use of specific tube additives is crucial for healthcare professionals working in home healthcare, clinical labs, and hospitals in the United States. By following the correct sequence and using the appropriate tubes, Healthcare Providers can ensure accurate and reliable Test Results, ultimately leading to better patient care.

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