Collection
General requirements for specimen collection are provided below and should be adhered to in order to preventspecimen rejection. For accurate, quality testing and results, correct collection,labelingand handling are essential. Improperly collected specimens are the leading cause of clinically inaccurate results or resulting delay. Refer to theDirectory of Servicesfor correct tube color, minimum draw volumes, handling, and shipment instructions.
- Specimens collected inmint greentop tubes do not require clot time. They should be gently inverted 8-10 times to mix then centrifuged for 10-15 minutes. Centrifuging must be done within 2 hours of collection.
- Specimens collected ingoldtop tubes must be allowed to clot (30 minutes) then centrifuged for 10-15 minutes. Incomplete clot formation will result in incomplete separation of the specimen and cause clots and cells remaining in the serum. Incomplete specimen separation may jeopardize the quality of results or cause the specimen to be rejected. Centrifuging must be done within 2 hours of collection.
- Specimens collected inlight blueorlavendertop tubes contain additives for inhibiting coagulation. Immediately following the blood draw, gently invert the tube 8-10 for lavender and 3-4 times for light blue, to ensure mixing of additive.
- Urine specimens are to be submitted 1 aliquot per test requested. For tests requiring 24 hour collection, indicate urine volume onboththe specimen container and requisition form.
- Refer to theSwab Chart(PDF - 835.1 KB)for questions on which swab to use
- Refer to theStool Collection Chart(PDF - 700.9 KB)for collection instructions on stool samples
- Be sure all specimen containers are labeled withboththe patient’s first and last name, and date of birth. Follow proper labeling guidelines by placing the label on the specimen container, not on the lid.
- Segregate specimens as to frozen, refrigerated or room temperature.
Order of Tube Draw
Below is the order of draw for tubes, additives in the tubes, and a brief description of common uses. The order in which tubes are drawn is important and should be followed to prevent cross-contamination of additives/anticoagulants:
| Tube color | Additive | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Blood culture bottle | Usually drawn first because of sterile technique | |
| Light blue top | Sodium citrate | Coagulation tests (Prothrombin time, Thrombin time, etc.) |
| Plain red top | No additive | Serum |
| Gold top (SST) | No additive | Serum, tube inversions mix blood and clot activator |
| Dark green top | Sodium heparin | Chromosome testing |
| Mint green top | Lithium heparin | Plasma, tube inversions prevent clotting |
| 薰衣草最高 | EDTA | Used for whole blood in Hematology |
| 粉色的上衣 | EDTA | Blood bank for type and cross-match |
| Royal blue top(PDF - 310.3 KB) | EDTA | Trace element determinations, heavy metals |
| Tan top | EDTA | Lead determinators |
| 灰色的顶部 | Potassium oxalate or Sodium fluoride | Glucose screening |
| Yellow top | ACD-A |
Please refer to theDirectory of Servicesor the Epic Procedure Catalog for test specifics such as tube color and amounts to draw. The above list is only a partial list of common tube colors and is intended to be used as a guide for the draw order.