2.4 Venipuncture Procedure
Precautions
This procedure should be conducted only by a qualified phlebotomist. When handling
patient samples, follow appropriate biohazard precautions.
Venipuncture Setup
1. Identify appropriate specimen type/types for the tests you are performing:
• Whole blood – Anticoagulated whole blood containing white blood cells, red blood
cells, platelets, and plasma.
• Serum – The liquid part of the blood obtained after the blood has been allowed to
coagulate and then spun down in a centrifuge. Red blood cells and fibrin are
separated from the rest of the liquid.
• Plasma – The liquid part of the blood obtained after the specimen has been mixed
with an anticoagulant and then spun down in a centrifuge. Cellular components are
separated from the rest of the liquid.
2. Select appropriate tubes and needles needed for the tests.
COLOR-CODED TUBES
Color Use Additive
Gray Plasma or Whole Blood Oxalate/fluoride
(glycolysis inhibition)
Green* Plasma or Whole Blood Heparin
Blue Plasma or Whole Blood Citrate
Lavender Plasma or Whole Blood EDTA
Red Serum None
Red or Red/Black Serum Serum separator gel
3. When collecting several samples during a venipuncture, start with the tubes that have
no additive, or a serum separator tube.
* This is the appropriate tube for use with the Cholestech LDX System.
Performing the Venipuncture
1. Identify the patient by asking the patient to state his/her full name.
2. Label the tube with the patient’s name or identification number.
3. Reassure the patient to make him or her comfortable.
4. Have the patient make a fist to increase blood flow.
5. Apply the tourniquet. Do not stop blood flowing in the veins for more than a minute
before the blood is drawn as it causes venous occlusion. If necessary, release the
tourniquet and reapply. Leaving the tourniquet on for more than three minutes may
cause erroneous results.
10 SPECIMEN COLLECTION AND HANDLING
Cholestech LDX System Procedure Manual
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