Order of Draw in Phlebotomy

What is the primary reason for collecting blood culture tubes first in the order of draw?

Why is it essential to use a new needle for each tube?

What is the purpose of collecting serum tubes in the order of draw?

Why is it important to handle tubes gently during the order of draw?

What is the purpose of collecting EDTA tubes in the order of draw?

What is the final step in the standard order of draw?

What is the primary purpose of using red top tubes?

What concentration of potassium oxalate is used in grey top tubes?

Which of the following tubes contains sodium citrate?

What is the concentration of heparin used in green top tubes?

What is the purpose of using lavender top tubes?

What is the concentration of EDTA used in lavender top tubes?

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

Blood Culture: Collect blood culture tubes first to prevent contamination with additives from other tubes.
Sodium Citrate (Coagulation) Tubes: Collect citrate tubes next to prevent activation of coagulation factors.
Serum Tubes (Red Top or Gold Top): Collect serum tubes to ensure separation of serum from clot.
Heparin Tubes (Green Top): Collect heparin tubes to prevent interference with coagulation tests.
EDTA Tubes (Lavender Top): Collect EDTA tubes to prevent platelet activation.
Fluoride Tubes (Gray Top): Collect fluoride tubes to prevent glycolysis.
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.

Learn the standardized procedure for collecting blood samples from a patient to minimize contamination and ensure accurate test results. Understand the importance of the order of draw and the key considerations to prevent cross-contamination and ensure accurate diagnosis.