Tube Additives
What additive is in a lavender tube?
EDTA
Most commonly used vein?
Median cubital vein
What tube is drawn first in the order of draw?
Blood culture (yellow bottles)
How should tubes with additives be mixed?
Gently inverted
What is used to clean the site?
Alcohol prep pad
What does EDTA do?
Prevents clotting by binding calcium
What angle is the needle inserted?
15–30 degrees
Which color tube comes after blood cultures?
Light Blue
What happens if you shake tubes too hard?
Hemolysis
What is the biggest risk from needle sticks?
Bloodborne pathogens
What additive is in the green tube?
Heparin
How long can a tourniquet stay on?
What additive is in the light blue tube?
Sodium citrate
What must be done immediately after collection?
Label the specimen
What should you do after a needle stick?
Wash area and report immediately
What additive is in the gray tube?
Sodium fluoride
What happens if the tourniquet is left on too long?
Hemoconcentration
Which tube is used for serum tests and comes after red?
Gold (SST)
What information must be on a label?
Patient name, date, time, collector initials
What is hemolysis caused by?
Rough handling or small needle
What is the purpose of sodium fluoride?
Preserves glucose
What should you do if no blood flows?
Adjust the needle position
What is the last tube drawn in the order?
Gray
What should you do if a specimen is mislabeled?
Discard and recollect
Why is proper order of draw important?
Prevents additive contamination