Essential Guidelines For Proper Labeling And Handling Of Collection Tubes In Phlebotomy

Summary

• Collection tubes are used in phlebotomy to collect and store blood samples for various laboratory tests.
• There are different types of collection tubes that are used depending on the specific tests that need to be performed.
• Proper labeling and handling of collection tubes are essential to ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety.

Introduction

Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood from patients for laboratory testing, transfusions, donations, or research. Collection tubes play a crucial role in this process, as they are used to collect and store blood samples before they are sent to the laboratory for analysis. In this article, we will explore the different types of collection tubes used in phlebotomy and their purposes.

Types of Collection Tubes

Serum Tubes

Serum tubes are used to collect blood samples for tests that require serum as the specimen. These tests include chemistry panels, hormone assays, and certain blood bank tests. Serum tubes typically contain a Clot Activator and a gel separator that help in the separation of serum from blood cells after centrifugation.

Anticoagulant Tubes

Anticoagulant tubes are used when the blood sample needs to be prevented from clotting. These tubes contain additives such as EDTA, citrate, or Heparin, which prevent the blood from coagulating. Anticoagulant tubes are used for tests that require plasma as the specimen, such as coagulation studies and Blood Glucose tests.

Plain Tubes

Plain tubes do not contain any additives and are used for tests that require whole blood as the specimen. These tubes are typically used for blood typing, crossmatching, and hematology tests.

Glycolysis Inhibitor Tubes

Glycolysis inhibitor tubes contain additives that prevent the breakdown of glucose in the blood sample. These tubes are used for tests that require accurate measurements of glucose levels, such as glucose tolerance tests and Fasting blood sugar tests.

Lavender Tubes

Lavender tubes, also known as EDTA tubes, contain EDTA as an Anticoagulant and are used for hematology tests. EDTA tubes are commonly used for complete blood counts (CBC), Blood Smears, and other tests that require whole blood or plasma specimens.

Gray Tubes

Gray tubes contain Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate as additives, which preserve glucose and inhibit glycolysis. These tubes are used for tests that require accurate measurements of glucose, lactate, or alcohol levels.

Labeling and Handling of Collection Tubes

Proper labeling and handling of collection tubes are essential in phlebotomy to ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

1. Label each tube accurately with the patient's name, identification number, date, and time of collection.
2. Use appropriate tubes for each specific test to avoid contamination or incorrect results.
3. Ensure that tubes are filled to the proper volume indicated to maintain the correct blood-to-additive ratio.
4. Mix tubes gently but thoroughly by inverting them several times after collection to ensure proper mixing of additives.
5. Store tubes upright in a rack or tray to prevent leakage or contamination of samples.
6. Transport tubes to the laboratory promptly and handle them carefully to avoid spillage or breakage.
7. Follow Proper Disposal procedures for used collection tubes according to biohazard waste guidelines.

Conclusion

Collection tubes are essential tools in phlebotomy that allow for the collection and storage of blood samples for laboratory testing. By using the appropriate tubes for specific tests and following proper labeling and handling procedures, phlebotomists can ensure accurate Test Results and patient safety. Understanding the different types of collection tubes and their purposes is crucial for healthcare professionals who perform phlebotomy procedures.

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