Blood Collection Tubes
Which tube is commonly used for a complete blood count (CBC)?
Lavender top tube with EDTA.
What is the first step in infection control before performing a blood draw?
Wash your hands
What is the purpose of applying a tourniquet during a blood draw?
To make veins more visible and easier to access by temporarily restricting blood flow.
Which blood vessel carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body?
Arteries (specifically, the aorta).
What is the name of the device used to collect blood from veins?
Needle
What additive is found in a light blue top tube and what test is it used for?
Sodium citrate, used for coagulation studies (e.g., PT, APTT).
Which type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling blood specimens?
Gloves.
After collecting a blood sample, how should you mix the blood in an EDTA tube?
Gently invert the tube several times to prevent clotting.
What are the components of blood that help with clotting?
Platelets.
What is the purpose of a tourniquet during phlebotomy?
To make veins more visible for blood collection.
Which tube is used for collecting plasma for chemistry tests?
Green top tube (heparin).
What should you do if you accidentally stick yourself with a contaminated needle?
Immediately wash the area, report the incident, and follow your workplace's post-exposure protocol.
Which vein is typically used for blood draws in the antecubital fossa (inside of the elbow)?
Median cubital vein.
Which organ is primarily responsible for filtering waste from the blood?
Kidneys
What is the function of a lancet in blood collection?
to perform a fingerstick or heelstick for small blood samples.
What is the main difference between a red top tube and a tiger top tube?
Red top tube has no additive; tiger top has a gel separator for serum collection.
Which organization sets the standards for infection control and bloodborne pathogens in the healthcare setting?
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
BONUS : What is the appropriate angle for inserting the needle during a venipuncture procedure?
15-30 degrees.
Which part of the blood is responsible for carrying oxygen?
Red blood cells.
BONUS : What does a "vacutainer" system include?
A needle, a tube holder, and the vacuum-sealed blood collection tubes.
For which test would you use a yellow top tube with SPS (Sodium Polyanethol Sulfonate)?
Blood cultures.
What is the correct method for disposing of used needles and other sharp objects?
Place them in a proper sharps container.
BONUS : What should you do if the blood flow stops during a venipuncture?
Reposition the needle slightly or try a different angle; ensure the tourniquet is not too tight.
What is the term for the liquid portion of blood that remains after clotting?
Serum.
BONUS : Which type of needle is typically used for venipuncture procedures?
A double-ended needle with a vacutainer holder.