Sample Requirements

Specimen: Whole Blood

Container(s): Lavender/EDTA

Preferred Vol: 3 mL

Infants <4 months:  Minimum 2-3 microtainers each with 0.5 mL

>4 months: Minimum 3 mL

Note:  Also accepted - 5-6 full microtainers for patients >4 months if 1 full 3 mL EDTA tube cannot be drawn. For extra tubes, the date is not pre-printed on the generic patient label and must be added. All tubes for a single specimen must have the same date/time and set of initials as the printed Transfusion specimen label.

Note:  Samples with low volumes may preclude full ABO typing and antibody identification workup, and may require re-draw if blood product transfusion is required/red blood cell antibodies are present.

Note: Patient arm band, label on specimen, and information in EHR must match including patient LEGAL name, medical record number, and date drawn. Document specimen draw time on filled labeled tube. Perform a 2-person verification at the bedside; both individuals must initial the tube, and the verifier’s name must be entered into the EHR. Deliver specimen to the Lab/Transfusion Service. Refer to Job Aid: Transfusion Specimen Collection, 13143 for more details.