 |
|
 |
|
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR BLOOD COLLECTION
|
|
|
Phlebotomy
Whenever possible, collect the
blood directly into the required tube using the evacuated tube and needle
holder device. If blood is collected into a syringe, it can be transferred to
an evacuated tube. Do not remove the stopper; slowly inject the blood through
the stopper down the side of the tube. Do not overfill the tube by forcing the
plunger down on the syringe. Transfer by this method may hemolyze the specimen
and produce spurious results for certain clinical chemistry tests, notably
potassium.
Volume Requirements
Volume requirements are listed
for each test (See Specimen/Minimum Volume section for specific test). To
determine the amount of whole blood needed to yield the required volume of
plasma or serum, multiply the specimen required by 2 to 2.5.
Collection of Multiple Evacuated Tubes
"NEXT TUBE RULE" -
Draw the EDTA (Lavender top) tube last to avoid possible contamination or
clotting. The blue top tube should be drawn after a tube is collected
in order to avoid tissue thromboplastin from the venipuncture. After the blood
has been collected gently invert all tubes, several times back and forth to mix
the additive.
Timed Specimens/Multiple Specimens
If more than one timed specimen
for the same test is collected, the collection time MUST be indicated on each
tube (i.e. glucose tolerance testing, drug level analysis, etc).
Fasting Specimens
Prior to collection, no food or
beverages are to be ingested, except water, for 12-14 hours. Water and
medication are allowed unless specifically prohibited by test requirements or a
physician's order.
|
|
|
|
|
