Order of Draw
What is the first tube you should draw in the order of draw?
Sterile yellow tube-Blood Cultures
What is the purpose of EDTA in the lavender top tubes?
EDTA acts as an anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting, preserves the shape of the cell, and reduces platelet clumping.
What is the first specimen in collected in the capillary order of draw/
Blood gases
What is phlebotomy?
The practice of drawing blood from a patient for clinical or medical testing.
What information should a phlebotomist gather from the patient before drawing blood?
Patient's name, date of birth, medical history, current medications, and any allergies.
What is it important to follow the order of draw in phlebotomy?
To prevent cross-contamination of additives and ensure accurate test results.
Name the additive found in the green top tube and its function?
It prevents blood clots from causing falsely elevated results, especially in potassium and electrolyte test.
Name the second specimen in the capillary order of draw.
Lavendar top tube (EDTA)
Name at least three key skills a phlebotomist must possess.
Good communication, attention to detail, and technical skills in blood collection.
Why is fasting important before certain blood tests?
To ensure accurate measurements of substances like glucose and lipids.
What is the correct sequence of the order of draw for blood collection?
Blood Culture, Light Blue, Red, Gold/Tiger, Green, Lavendar, Pink, Gray, Light Yellow, Royal or Dark Blue.
What is the primary use of serum separator tubes(SST)?
To separate serum from blood cells for various lab test.
Why is the capillary order of draw different from venipuncture order of draw?
Due to the small volume of blood and the risk of contamination from tissue fluid.
What are the potential risks associated with phlebotomy?
Hematoma, infection, and nerve damage.
What should patients be informed about prior to a blood draw?
The procedure, any potential discomfort, and aftercare instructions.
What tube is the last tube in the order of draw?
Royal or Dark Blue
How does sodium citrate affect blood samples in blue top tubes?
It acts as an anticoagulant by binding calcium, which is essential for clotting. It preserves the coagulation factors.
What is often the last specimen collected in a capillary draw?
Serum or SST specimens
Describe the role of a phlebotomist in patient care.
To collect blood samples safely and effectively, ensuring patient comfort and accurate test results.
How can a phlebotomist help reduce patient anxiety during a procedure?
By explaining the process, using calm communication, and ensuring a comfortable environment.
Describe the potential consequences of not adhering to the order of draw during a blood collection.
Incorrect test results, false positive/negatives, and potential harm to the patient due to misdiagnosis.
What is the purpose of Potassium oxalate/Sodium fluoride in the gray top tube?
It preserves the glucose and prevent glycolysis.
What are two factors that can affect the quality of a capillary specimen?
Site selection and patient condition. (e.g., dehydration)
What is the importance of infection control in phlebotomy?
To prevent the transmission of infections and ensure the safety of both patient and healthcare workers.
What is the significance of labeling blood samples immediately after collection?
To avoid mix-ups and ensure correct identification for laboratory testing.