Which sequence correctly represents the CLSI capillary order of draw?

Which sequence correctly represents the CLSI capillary order of draw?

• A. EHAS
• B. SEAH
• C. HASE
• D. ASHE

Answer: (A)

In CLSI capillary draws, the order is chosen to minimize carryover of additives and contamination so each test yields accurate results. You start with the tube containing EDTA because tests like the complete blood count rely on that anticoagulant, and drawing it first reduces the risk that EDTA will affect subsequent specimens. Next comes the heparin tube for plasma chemistry tests. After that, a tube with another additive is drawn, if needed, before the final tube that yields serum. Collecting serum last helps keep it free from anticoagulant carryover and ensures proper clotting. Because of this sequencing, the described progression—EDTA first, then heparin, then the additive-containing tube, and finally serum—follows CLSI guidelines.

In CLSI capillary draws, the order is chosen to minimize carryover of additives and contamination so each test yields accurate results. You start with the tube containing EDTA because tests like the complete blood count rely on that anticoagulant, and drawing it first reduces the risk that EDTA will affect subsequent specimens. Next comes the heparin tube for plasma chemistry tests. After that, a tube with another additive is drawn, if needed, before the final tube that yields serum. Collecting serum last helps keep it free from anticoagulant carryover and ensures proper clotting. Because of this sequencing, the described progression—EDTA first, then heparin, then the additive-containing tube, and finally serum—follows CLSI guidelines.