Blood Collection Equipment & Supplies Flashcards

What does 'SST' stand for in the context of blood collection tubes?

Answer: Serum Separator Tube

SST stands for Serum Separator Tube; it contains a gel barrier that separates serum from cellular components after centrifugation.

Which needle gauge is MOST appropriate for venipuncture in a pediatric patient?

Answer: 23 gauge

23-gauge (or smaller) needles are preferred for pediatric patients because they cause less trauma and are sized appropriately for smaller, more delicate veins.

The gray-top tube contains which combination of additives?

Answer: Potassium oxalate and sodium fluoride

Gray-top tubes contain potassium oxalate (anticoagulant) and sodium fluoride (glycolysis inhibitor) to preserve glucose and lactate levels in the specimen.

What is the function of the clot activator found in red or gold-top serum tubes?

Answer: To accelerate the clotting process for serum collection

Clot activators such as silica particles accelerate the natural coagulation cascade, allowing the clot to form quickly so serum can be separated efficiently after centrifugation.

Which system allows multiple evacuated tubes to be filled from a single venipuncture without removing the needle?

Answer: Evacuated (Vacutainer) multi-sample needle system

The evacuated multi-sample needle system (e.g., Vacutainer) uses a double-ended needle and reusable holder, enabling multiple tubes to be collected sequentially from one stick.

When selecting a needle gauge for syringe blood collection, the MOST important consideration is:

Answer: Matching gauge to vein size and required sample volume

Needle gauge should match the vein size and the volume required; too small a gauge risks hemolysis, while too large a gauge causes unnecessary trauma.

What is the recommended needle insertion angle for standard adult venipuncture?

Answer: 15–30 degrees

A 15–30 degree angle allows the needle to enter the vein lumen without penetrating through both walls, ensuring successful blood collection.