Standard Order of Draw for Blood Specimen Collection: Understanding the Lab Tube Color Chart

Summary

• Understanding the standard order of draw for blood specimen collection is crucial for accurate testing results
• The lab tube color chart provides a guide for healthcare professionals to follow during blood collection
• Following the correct order of draw helps prevent sample contamination and ensures patient safety

Introduction

When it comes to blood specimen collection, accuracy is key. Healthcare professionals must follow a standardized order of draw to ensure that Test Results are reliable and accurate. The lab tube color chart provides guidance on the proper sequence of tubes to be used during blood collection. In this article, we will delve into the standard order of draw for blood specimen collection in the United States according to the lab tube color chart.

Understanding the Lab Tube Color Chart

The lab tube color chart is a vital tool for healthcare professionals involved in blood specimen collection. It provides a standardized guide on the order in which different types of tubes should be used to collect blood samples. Each color tube is designed for specific tests, and following the proper order of draw helps prevent sample contamination and ensures accurate Test Results.

The Standard Order of Draw for Blood Specimen Collection

According to the lab tube color chart, the standard order of draw for blood specimen collection in the United States is as follows:

1. Yellow Tube

1. The yellow tube, also known as the SPS (sodium polyanethol sulfonate) tube, is used for Blood Culture collection to detect bacteria in the bloodstream.
2. This tube should always be the first one drawn to prevent contamination with additives from other tubes.

2. Light Blue Tube

1. The light blue tube contains Sodium Citrate and is used for coagulation studies, such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time).
2. It is crucial to fill this tube to the correct volume to maintain the proper blood-to-additive ratio.

3. Red Tube

1. The red tube does not contain any additives and is used for various tests, including blood bank studies and serology tests.
2. It is important to allow the tube to clot before centrifugation to obtain serum for testing.

4. Gold or Tiger Top Tube

1. The gold or tiger top tube contains a gel separator and is used for chemistry tests, such as BMP (basic metabolic panel) and CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel).
2. This tube should be gently inverted after collection to ensure proper mixing of the blood and gel separator.

5. Light Green Tube

1. The light green tube contains Heparin and is used for various tests, such as ammonia and STAT (emergency) chemistry tests.
2. It is important to invert this tube several times after collection to prevent clotting.

6. Dark Green Tube

1. The dark green tube contains Heparin and is used for special chemistry tests, such as STAT electrolytes.
2. Proper mixing of the blood and Heparin is crucial to prevent inaccurate Test Results.

7. Lavender Tube

1. The lavender tube contains EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and is used for hematology studies, such as CBC (complete blood count) and blood bank tests.
2. This tube should be gently inverted after collection to prevent clotting and ensure accurate results.

8. Gray Tube

1. The gray tube contains Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate and is used for glucose testing.
2. This tube should be gently inverted after collection to prevent glycolysis (breakdown of glucose) in the sample.

Conclusion

Understanding the standard order of draw for blood specimen collection according to the lab tube color chart is essential for healthcare professionals. Following the correct sequence of tubes helps prevent sample contamination, ensures accurate Test Results, and promotes patient safety. By adhering to the guidelines provided in the lab tube color chart, healthcare professionals can streamline the blood collection process and maintain the integrity of blood samples for testing.

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