Blood Collection Procedures and Considerations

The most commonly tested type of clinical sample because it provides a wealth of information about the patient's health.

A series of tests that measure the levels of different substances in the blood, providing insight into kidney function.

A series of tests that measure the levels of different substances in the blood, providing insight into liver function.

Tests that measure the levels of different hormones in the blood, providing information about the endocrine system.

Tests that measure the blood's ability to clot properly.

Tests that identify specific antibodies in the blood, indicating exposure to or infection with certain viruses or bacteria.

A system where a needle is attached to a vacuum tube, making blood collection easier and faster.

Different sizes of needles are used depending on the patient's size and the vein targeted.

A liquid that contains clotting proteins, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

The process where blood forms a solid mass, often due to clotting proteins.

The clear liquid remaining after blood clots. It lacks clotting factors.

A special tube used to collect blood samples. It contains a gel to separate blood cells from serum and particles to speed up clotting.

A device used to spin blood samples at high speeds to separate components like serum and cells.

A substance that prevents blood from clotting.

The clear liquid portion of blood that contains clotting factors.

A special tube used to collect blood samples that prevents blood from clotting.

A chemical compound that binds to calcium in blood, preventing clotting. Found in lavender-topped tubes.

A chemical compound that binds to calcium, preventing clotting, but not as strongly as EDTA. Found in light blue-topped tubes.

A biological substance used in vivo (by injection) and in vitro to prevent blood clotting, usually found in green-capped tubes.

Blood collection tubes with a lavender top contain EDTA, preventing blood clotting, allowing the veterinarian to count blood cells easily.

Blood collection tubes with a gray top contain sodium fluoride, used for blood sugar determinations, especially for monitoring insulin treatment in diabetic patients.

Blood collection tubes with a dark blue top contain sodium EDTA, used for trace mineral studies, especially in large animals for dietary needs.

The correct proportion of anticoagulant to blood is crucial for accurate results. Dilution can affect the test outcome and can be reversed by adding calcium.

The most common blood collection site in horses, cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and large wild mammals. It is also occasionally used in small animals.

The most common blood collection site for small amounts of blood in dogs, located in the forelimb.

A blood collection site that can be used in small dogs, pigs, cats, and small laboratory animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. It is located in the ear.

The process of applying pressure on a vein to make it more prominent for blood collection. It is done by pressing on the vein with a thumb or fingers.

The blood that flows to the head travels through the carotid artery, returning to the heart through the jugular vein.

A system that uses a needle connected to a vacuum tube to draw blood directly into a tube, eliminating the need for a syringe.

To make veins more visible, apply alcohol to the area. This helps ensure you are targeting the correct vein for the blood draw.

When inserting the needle, ensure the bevel, or slanted edge, is facing upwards. This facilitates a smoother entry into the vein.

Ensure to pull the syringe plunger slowly and match the draw speed with the blood flow. If the flow stops, it indicates the vein might be empty or the needle may have shifted.

After withdrawing the needle, apply pressure to the venipuncture site to prevent hematoma formation, causing bleeding.

When filling the tubes, prevent positive pressure. Forceful injection into the tube can cause damage to the blood cells.

If the tube is overfilled, puncture the stopper and remove a small amount of air. This ensures the stopper remains secure during transportation.

To clean blood stains from the patient's coat, apply hydrogen peroxide. Afterwards, rinse the area with water.

A thin layer of blood spread on a microscope slide, stained to visualize blood cells.

A blood smear is prepared by collecting blood and spreading it in a thin layer on a slide, then drying and staining it.

The counting area on a blood smear lies between the body and the feathered edge.

Blood smears should be dried quickly to prevent red blood cell artifacts.

A blood smear should be stained within 48 hours of preparation.

Blood smears should be stored at room temperature and shipped separately from formalin-exposed biopsies.

Three key regions are important for blood smear evaluation.

The tail is often used for blood collection in pigs, cattle, sheep, rats, and mice.