Order of Draw in Phlebotomy

Order of Draw

The order of draw is a standardized procedure for collecting blood samples from a patient to minimize contamination and ensure accurate test results.

Importance of Order of Draw

• Prevents cross-contamination of blood samples
• Reduces the risk of false test results
• Ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment

Standard Order of Draw

1. Blood Culture: Collect blood culture tubes first to prevent contamination with additives from other tubes.
2. Sodium Citrate (Coagulation) Tubes: Collect citrate tubes next to prevent activation of coagulation factors.
3. Serum Tubes (Red Top or Gold Top): Collect serum tubes to ensure separation of serum from clot.
4. Heparin Tubes (Green Top): Collect heparin tubes to prevent interference with coagulation tests.
5. EDTA Tubes (Lavender Top): Collect EDTA tubes to prevent platelet activation.
6. Fluoride Tubes (Gray Top): Collect fluoride tubes to prevent glycolysis.
7. Other Tubes (e.g., Oxalate, Acid-Citrate-Dextrose): Collect other tubes according to specific requirements.

Key Considerations

• Always use a new needle for each tube to prevent cross-contamination.
• Use the correct needle size and type for the patient's vein size and type.
• Ensure the patient's identification and tube labels match.
• Handle tubes gently to prevent hemolysis.
• Follow proper procedures for tube inversion and mixing.