Impact of Biologics and Biosimilars on Phlebotomy Practices

Written By Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Summary

  • Biologics and biosimilars are complex drugs made from living organisms.
  • They are used to treat various medical conditions, including Autoimmune Diseases and cancer.
  • Biologics and biosimilars have a significant impact on phlebotomy practices due to their potential effects on patients' blood samples.

Introduction

In recent years, biologic drugs have revolutionized the field of medicine with their ability to treat complex diseases. With the increasing use of biologics and their generic versions, known as biosimilars, in healthcare settings, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to understand their impact on various medical procedures, including phlebotomy.

What are Biologics and Biosimilars?

Biologics are complex drugs made from living organisms, such as proteins, cells, tissues, or genes. These drugs are used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including Autoimmune Diseases, cancer, and chronic conditions like diabetes. Biologics are typically more challenging and expensive to manufacture than traditional chemical-based drugs.

Biosimilars are generic versions of biologic drugs that are highly similar to the original product. They are also made from living organisms but are not identical to the reference product. Biosimilars undergo a rigorous approval process to ensure their safety, efficacy, and quality compared to the original biologic drug.

Impact of Biologics and Biosimilars on Phlebotomy

Effects on Blood Samples

Biologics and biosimilars can have an impact on phlebotomy practices due to their potential effects on patients' blood samples. Since biologics are complex drugs that interact with the immune system and target specific disease processes, they can alter the composition of blood samples and affect laboratory Test Results.

Challenges in Blood Collection

Healthcare professionals may encounter challenges in collecting blood samples from patients receiving biologics or biosimilars. These challenges can include:

  1. Increased risk of hematoma formation due to altered clotting factors.
  2. Changes in blood cell counts and markers due to drug interference.
  3. Difficulty in obtaining a sufficient sample volume for testing.
  4. False-positive or false-negative Test Results due to drug-induced changes in Biomarkers.

Precautions for Phlebotomy Procedures

To ensure accurate and reliable Test Results, healthcare professionals should take specific precautions when performing phlebotomy on patients receiving biologics or biosimilars. These precautions may include:

  1. Consulting with the prescribing physician to understand the drug's potential effects on blood samples.
  2. Using the appropriate blood collection tubes and handling techniques to minimize drug interference.
  3. Monitoring patients for any adverse reactions or changes in blood parameters during and after blood collection.
  4. Documenting the patient's medication history and any relevant laboratory Test Results for reference.

Conclusion

Biologics and biosimilars have revolutionized the treatment of complex diseases, but they also pose unique challenges for phlebotomy practices. Healthcare professionals must be aware of the potential effects of these drugs on blood samples and take appropriate precautions to ensure accurate Test Results. By understanding the impact of biologics and biosimilars on phlebotomy, Healthcare Providers can deliver high-quality care to patients receiving these innovative therapies.

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Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Emily Carter is a certified phlebotomist with over 8 years of experience working in clinical laboratories and outpatient care facilities. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Pittsburgh, Emily became passionate about promoting best practices in phlebotomy techniques and patient safety. She has contributed to various healthcare blogs and instructional guides, focusing on the nuances of blood collection procedures, equipment selection, and safety standards.

When she's not writing, Emily enjoys mentoring new phlebotomists, helping them develop their skills through hands-on workshops and certifications. Her goal is to empower medical professionals and patients alike with accurate, up-to-date information about phlebotomy practices.

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