CLSI H01-A5

American National Standard*

CLSI H01-A5 discusses single-use, venous blood collection tubes. Normally, such tubes are used inconjunction with double-ended needles to provide a reliable, closed system for blood specimen collectionand transportation for subsequent, general laboratory analysis. While the system inherently protects boththe patient and the individual collector, care should be taken to protect the patient from microbialcontamination. This precaution is met by the use of tubes with sterile interiors and the use of directions toprevent backflow from tube to patient.

The standard also provides a description, mode of action, specifications, and assay methods for additivesto blood collection devices, including ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), heparin, and sodiumcitrate.

This standard is not intended to restrict the availability or use of venous blood collection tubes other thanthose specifically mentioned in this document. The standard does not address tubes used for highlyspecific tests (e.g., trace metal analysis).

Edition:

Fifth Edition

Published:

12/01/2003

ISBN(s):

1562385194

Number of Pages:

44