Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Whole blood

Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 6 mL

Container/Tube:  Neonatal Specimen  2 EDTA microtainers

Specimen Volume:  2 ml

Collection Instructions:

1. Plasma gel tube is not acceptable.

2. Specimen cannot be frozen.

Additional Information: While a type and screen can be done for generic purposes as a preadmission evaluation, it is usually done with the possibility of an upcoming transfusion in mind. If that is the case, a very stringent collection and labeling protocol must be followed including:

1. Specimen must be drawn by CentraCare Laboratory Services staff.

2. Handwritten label to include patient’s name (first and last), medical record number/DOB, date and time of draw, and initials of phlebotomis if not collected using electronic identification  device with bedside label production.