The Importance Of Following The Correct Order Of Draw In Blood Collection

Summary

• Incorrect order of draw can lead to inaccurate Test Results
• Improper order of draw can cause contamination of samples
• Following the correct order of draw is essential for patient safety and quality of care

Introduction

When it comes to collecting blood samples for laboratory testing, following the proper order of draw is essential. Failure to adhere to this protocol can have serious consequences, not only for the accuracy of Test Results but also for patient safety. In this blog post, we will explore what happens when the order of draw is not followed properly and why it is so important to follow this procedure.

What is the Order of Draw?

The order of draw refers to the sequence in which blood samples should be collected when multiple tubes are being filled during a Venipuncture procedure. This protocol is designed to prevent Cross-Contamination between tubes and ensure the accuracy of Test Results. The order of draw typically follows the sequence of tubes with additives to those without additives, as well as by the type of additive used.

Common Order of Draw

1. Yellow or SPS tubes (Sterile Procoagulant)
2. Light-blue tubes (Sodium Citrate)
3. Red or Gold SST tubes (Serum Separator Tube)
4. Green or Mint green tubes (Heparin or Lithium Heparin)
5. Lavender or Pink tubes (EDTA)
6. Gray tubes (Sodium Fluoride/Potassium Oxalate)

Consequences of Not Following the Order of Draw

Failure to follow the proper order of draw can have serious consequences, both for the quality of Test Results and for patient safety. Some of the potential issues that can arise include:

Inaccurate Test Results

One of the primary concerns with not following the order of draw is the potential for inaccurate Test Results. When blood samples are collected in the wrong sequence, additives from one tube can contaminate subsequent tubes, leading to false results. For example, if a tube containing an Anticoagulant is drawn after a tube without an anticoagulant, the Clotting Time of the sample may be affected, leading to inaccurate coagulation Test Results.

Contamination of Samples

Another risk of not following the proper order of draw is the potential for sample contamination. Additives in different tubes are specifically chosen to preserve the integrity of the sample for specific tests. Mixing these additives can lead to inaccurate results or sample hemolysis, which can interfere with various tests, such as potassium or LDH levels.

Patient Safety Concerns

Not following the order of draw can also pose risks to patient safety. If inaccurate Test Results lead to incorrect diagnoses or treatment decisions, patients may suffer harm as a result. For example, incorrect coagulation Test Results could lead to inappropriate dosing of Anticoagulant medications, putting the patient at risk of bleeding or clotting complications.

Why Following the Order of Draw is Essential

Following the correct order of draw is essential for maintaining the integrity of blood samples and ensuring the accuracy of Test Results. By adhering to this protocol, Healthcare Providers can help prevent errors that could have serious consequences for patient care. Some of the key reasons why following the order of draw is essential include:

Quality of Care

Ensuring the accuracy of Test Results is crucial for providing quality patient care. By following the proper order of draw, Healthcare Providers can minimize the risk of errors that could lead to incorrect diagnoses or treatment decisions. This, in turn, helps to protect patient safety and ensure that individuals receive the most appropriate care for their condition.

Regulatory Compliance

Following established protocols, such as the order of draw, is often a requirement for regulatory compliance in healthcare settings. Accrediting bodies and regulatory agencies may assess healthcare facilities on their adherence to best practices, including proper specimen collection procedures. Failing to follow the order of draw could result in sanctions or penalties for non-compliance.

Patient Trust

Patients trust Healthcare Providers to perform accurate Diagnostic Tests that will inform their medical care. When the order of draw is not followed properly, there is a risk of compromising this trust by providing inaccurate Test Results. By following the correct protocol, Healthcare Providers can help maintain patient trust and confidence in the quality of care they receive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the order of draw is a critical aspect of specimen collection that should not be overlooked. Failure to follow this protocol can have serious consequences for the accuracy of Test Results, patient safety, and the quality of care provided. Healthcare Providers must be vigilant in adhering to the proper order of draw to prevent errors and ensure the integrity of blood samples. By understanding the importance of this protocol and following it consistently, healthcare professionals can help protect patients and uphold the standards of quality care.

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