The medical field relies heavily on the accuracy and reliability of laboratory tests to diagnose and treat patients. Phlebotomy, the process of collecting blood samples from patients, plays a crucial role in this process. One of the essential aspects of phlebotomy is following the correct order of draw to ensure that the blood samples are not contaminated and that the results are accurate.
Why is the Order of Draw Important?
The order of draw is crucial because different tubes contain various additives that can contaminate the sample if not followed in the correct order. For example, if a tube containing an anticoagulant is drawn before a tube without an anticoagulant, the anticoagulant can contaminate the second tube and affect the test results.
Phlebotomy Order of Draw Cheat Sheet
To help phlebotomists remember the correct order of draw, here is a cheat sheet that can be printed and referenced:
- Blood Culture Tubes: These tubes are used to collect blood samples for culture and sensitivity testing. They should always be drawn first to minimize the risk of contamination.
- Coagulation Tubes: These tubes contain an anticoagulant that helps to prevent the blood from clotting. They should be drawn second to prevent contamination of the blood culture tubes.
- Serum Separator Tubes (SST): These tubes contain a gel separator that helps to separate the serum from the blood cells. They should be drawn third.
- Plasma Tubes: These tubes contain an anticoagulant that helps to prevent the blood from clotting. They should be drawn fourth.
- EDTA Tubes: These tubes contain an anticoagulant that helps to prevent the blood from clotting. They should be drawn fifth.
- Glycolytic Inhibitor Tubes: These tubes contain an additive that helps to inhibit glycolysis, the breakdown of glucose in the blood. They should be drawn sixth.
Remember the Mnemonic Device
To help remember the order of draw, you can use the following mnemonic device:
"Blood Culture Tubes, Coagulation Tubes, Serum Separator Tubes, Plasma Tubes, EDTA Tubes, Glycolytic Inhibitor Tubes"
Or, you can use a sentence that starts with the first letter of each tube, such as:
"Brian's Cats Sleep Peacefully Eating Grapes"
Importance of Following the Order of Draw
Following the correct order of draw is essential to ensure that the blood samples are not contaminated and that the results are accurate. If the order of draw is not followed, it can lead to incorrect test results, which can have serious consequences for patients.
Consequences of Not Following the Order of Draw
Not following the correct order of draw can have serious consequences, including:
- Incorrect test results
- Delayed diagnosis
- Inappropriate treatment
- Patient harm
Best Practices for Phlebotomy
To ensure that the order of draw is followed correctly, phlebotomists should follow these best practices:
- Always follow the correct order of draw
- Use a needle with a single puncture site to minimize the risk of contamination
- Use a tube holder to keep the tubes in the correct order
- Label the tubes clearly and accurately
- Transport the tubes to the laboratory promptly and safely
Conclusion
Following the correct order of draw is essential for accurate laboratory test results. By remembering the order of draw and following best practices, phlebotomists can help ensure that patients receive the correct diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
What is the correct order of draw for phlebotomy?
+The correct order of draw is: Blood Culture Tubes, Coagulation Tubes, Serum Separator Tubes, Plasma Tubes, EDTA Tubes, Glycolytic Inhibitor Tubes.
Why is the order of draw important?
+The order of draw is important because different tubes contain various additives that can contaminate the sample if not followed in the correct order.
What are the consequences of not following the order of draw?
+The consequences of not following the order of draw include incorrect test results, delayed diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, and patient harm.