Order of Draw for Phlebotomy Procedures: Understanding Additives for Accurate Blood Samples

Summary

• Understanding the order of draw for phlebotomy procedures is crucial in ensuring accurate blood samples are collected.
• Each tube used in the order of draw contains specific additives to preserve the blood sample for testing.
• Knowing the additives in each tube helps healthcare professionals ensure the integrity of blood samples and accurate Test Results.

Introduction

Phlebotomy procedures are an essential part of healthcare, allowing healthcare professionals to collect blood samples for various tests and diagnostics. One crucial aspect of phlebotomy is the order of draw, which specifies the sequence in which different types of blood collection tubes should be used to prevent sample contamination and ensure accurate Test Results. Understanding the specific additives used in each tube in the order of draw is key to ensuring the integrity of blood samples. In this article, we will explore the specific additives used in each tube in the order of draw for phlebotomy procedures in the United States.

Order of Draw for Phlebotomy Procedures

The order of draw for phlebotomy procedures is a standardized sequence that healthcare professionals follow when collecting blood samples. This sequence is designed to minimize the risk of sample contamination and ensure accurate Test Results. The typical order of draw for phlebotomy procedures in the United States is as follows:

1. Blood Cultures Tubes

1. Additives: Sodium Polyanethol Sulfonate (SPS) and Sodium Polyanethol Sulfonate with Gel for Microbial Detection
2. Used for: Collecting blood samples for microbial culture and identification

2. Coagulation Tubes (Light Blue Top)

1. Additives: Sodium Citrate
2. Used for: Coagulation studies, such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)

3. Serum Tubes (Red Top)

1. Additives: None
2. Used for: Collection of serum for various tests, including chemistry and serology

4. Plasma Separator Tubes (Green Top)

1. Additives: Lithium Heparin, Sodium Heparin, or Potassium EDTA
2. Used for: Plasma-based tests, such as blood sugar or electrolyte levels

5. Serum Separator Tubes (Gold Top)

1. Additives: Clot Activator and Gel Separator
2. Used for: Collecting serum samples for chemistry tests

6. Heparin Tubes (Dark Green Top)

1. Additives: Lithium Heparin, Sodium Heparin, or Ammonium Heparin
2. Used for: Collecting blood samples for tests that require plasma or whole blood

7. EDTA Tubes (Purple Top)

1. Additives: Potassium EDTA or Dipotassium EDTA
2. Used for: Collecting blood samples for hematology tests, such as complete blood count (CBC)

8. Glycolysis Inhibitor Tubes (Gray Top)

1. Additives: Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate
2. Used for: Collecting blood samples for glucose testing

Importance of Knowing Additives in Each Tube

Understanding the specific additives used in each tube in the order of draw is crucial for healthcare professionals for several reasons:

1. Preservation of blood samples: The additives in each tube serve to preserve the integrity of blood samples and prevent clotting or hemolysis, which can affect Test Results.
2. Accurate Test Results: Using the correct tubes with the appropriate additives ensures that blood samples are suitable for the intended tests, leading to accurate and reliable results.
3. Patient safety: By following the order of draw and using tubes with the right additives, healthcare professionals can minimize the risk of sample contamination and ensure patient safety.

Conclusion

Phlebotomy procedures play a crucial role in healthcare, allowing healthcare professionals to collect blood samples for diagnostic testing. Understanding the specific additives used in each tube in the order of draw is essential for ensuring the integrity of blood samples and accurate Test Results. By following the correct order of draw and using tubes with the appropriate additives, healthcare professionals can provide quality care to patients and contribute to better healthcare outcomes.

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