What is the order of draw for phlebotomy?
The proper order of draw for phlebotomy is a standardized sequence of collecting blood samples to prevent cross-contamination and ensure accurate test results.
Detailed Answer
The standard order of draw is: 1) Blood culture, 2) Coagulation tube (light blue top), 3) Serum tube (red/gold top), 4) Heparin tube (green top), 5) EDTA tube (lavender top), and 6) Additive tubes (gray top).
The blood culture tube is drawn first to prevent contamination from other tubes. The coagulation tube is next to prevent activation of the clotting cascade.
Serum, heparin, and EDTA tubes follow, as they have different additives that could affect results if drawn in the wrong order.
Additive tubes like glucose or drug monitoring tubes are drawn last to avoid dilution or contamination from previous draws.
Tips & Recommendations
- Always follow the standard order of draw to ensure the integrity of the samples and accurate test results.
- Double-check the order of draw before collecting each sample to avoid mistakes.
- Use the appropriate tube size and type for each test to prevent under- or over-filling the tubes.
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