What is the correct order of draw for blood collection tubes?

The correct order of draw for blood collection tubes is essential for avoiding contamination and ensuring accurate test results. The standard order begins with light blue tubes, which are used for coagulation tests, as they contain sodium citrate that can affect subsequent tests if blood is drawn in the incorrect order.

Following the light blue tube, red tubes are collected next. These tubes do not contain any additives, allowing the blood to clot, and they should be drawn before any tubes with additives that might interfere with the clotting process.

The green tubes come after the red tubes. They contain heparin, which is an anticoagulant, and drawing them after the red tubes prevents potential contamination that could affect tests that require clotting.

Lastly, lavender tubes, which contain EDTA as an anticoagulant, are drawn. This ensures that any tests that require plasma or whole blood analysis are not affected by the presence of clotting agents from previously drawn tubes.

By following this order, the integrity of various blood tests is maintained, ensuring that the results are reliable and accurate. This is why the order listed in the correct answer is recognized as the proper sequence for blood collection.