The Importance of Following the Correct Order of Draw Mnemonic in Medical Labs
Summary
- Following the correct order of draw mnemonic is crucial for phlebotomists in medical labs in the United States.
- Proper order of draw helps prevent sample contamination and ensures accurate Test Results.
- Mnemonics like "Stop Light," "You Better Try All Tackling Football Players," and "Blondes Really Can Order Pretty Silly Buckets" can assist phlebotomists in remembering the correct order.
Introduction
Phlebotomists play a crucial role in the healthcare system by drawing blood samples for clinical testing. In medical labs across the United States, following the correct order of draw mnemonic is essential to ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety. This article will explore the importance of phlebotomists adhering to the prescribed order of draw mnemonic in healthcare settings.
The Importance of Order of Draw
The order of draw refers to the sequence in which blood samples are collected into different tubes during Venipuncture. Following the correct order is vital for several reasons:
Preventing Sample Contamination
When blood samples are collected in the wrong order, contamination can occur. For example, if a tube containing additives for coagulation studies is drawn after a tube with anticoagulants, the sample may be compromised. This can lead to inaccurate Test Results and potentially harm the patient.
Ensuring Accurate Test Results
Each tube used for blood collection contains specific additives or chemicals to preserve and analyze the sample. If the order of draw is not followed, the additives from one tube may carry over into the next, affecting the results of subsequent tests. By adhering to the correct order, phlebotomists can help guarantee the accuracy of laboratory tests.
Common Order of Draw Mnemonics
To assist phlebotomists in remembering the correct order of draw, various mnemonics have been developed. These memory aids use words or phrases to represent the sequence of tubes used during Venipuncture. Some common mnemonics include:
"Stop Light"
- S - Sterile (Yellow top)
- T - Light Blue (Light Blue Top)
- O - Order of draw tube (Red Top)
- P - Purple top
- L - Light Green (Light Green Top)
- I - Ice Blue (Dark Green Top)
- G - Gray top
- H - Heparin (Royal blue top)
- T - Tri-Sodium Citrate (Orange top)
"You Better Try All Tackling Football Players"
- Yellow top (Sterile)
- Blue top (Citrate)
- Red Top (No additive)
- Light Blue Top (Coagulation)
- Green top (Heparin)
- Tiger top (SST Gel Separator)
- Gold Top (Serum Separator)
- Light Green Top (PST Gel Separator)
"Blondes Really Can Order Pretty Silly Buckets"
- Blue top (Citrate)
- Red Top (No additive)
- Green top (Heparin)
- Yellow top (Sterile)
- Plain (No additive)
- SST (Gel Separator)
- Blue top (Coagulation)
Conclusion
Following the correct order of draw mnemonic is vital for phlebotomists working in medical labs in the United States. By adhering to the prescribed sequence, phlebotomists can prevent sample contamination, ensure accurate Test Results, and maintain patient safety. Mnemonics like "Stop Light," "You Better Try All Tackling Football Players," and "Blondes Really Can Order Pretty Silly Buckets" serve as valuable memory aids to help phlebotomists remember the proper order of draw. Ultimately, the importance of following the correct order of draw cannot be overstated in the realm of home healthcare, clinical labs, and hospitals across the country.
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