Laboratory Specimens

Chapter 16 Laboratory Specimens



Laboratory results establish a baseline, identify trends, diagnose a particular condition, and monitor the treatment plan.



General Principles of Specimen Collection


The following are general principles for all specimen collection:



Use the following procedures to prevent hemolysis of blood specimens1:







Blood Collection Procedures



Venous Blood Samples


The larger median cubital and cephalic veins are the usual choice for venous access, but the basilic vein on the dorsum of the arm or dorsal hand veins are also acceptable. Foot or ankle veins are to be used as a last resort because of the higher probability of complications to the site.


Use the following techniques to find a good site for venous access:




Once access is established, to obtain the best specimen follow these guidelines:





Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter, Central Line, or Port


In preparing to collect blood specimens, it is important to review what laboratory tests have been ordered to ensure gathering of the appropriate supplies. It is important when using an established intravenous (IV) or central line for blood collection that the nurse clears the IV or central line from potential contamination from recently administered IV fluids or other medications. For additional information, see Chapter 10, Intravenous Therapy.


General principles for clearing the IV or central line include the following:



Additional tips for specimen collection with a peripheral line or port:



Aug 9, 2016 | Posted by in EMERGENCY MEDICINE | Comments Off on Laboratory Specimens

Full access? Get Clinical Tree

Get Clinical Tree app for offline access