If a CBC was drawn in a blue-topped tube, what should you do next?

A complete blood count (CBC) requires proper tube selection for accurate testing. A blue-topped tube is typically used for coagulation studies, not for a CBC. The blue tube contains sodium citrate, an anticoagulant that is not suitable for the preservation of cellular components needed for a CBC.

After determining that a CBC has been drawn in a blue-topped tube, the appropriate next step is to redraw the specimen using the correct tube. A lavender or purple-topped tube, containing EDTA as an anticoagulant, is specifically designed for hematology tests such as a CBC. By redrawing the specimen in the appropriate tube, you ensure that the sample will properly preserve the formed elements and provide accurate results.

Choosing any other option, such as sending the incorrect tube to the lab, would likely result in erroneous test results, while allowing the specimen to sit could lead to clotting or degradation of the sample, compromising its integrity. Therefore, ensuring the correct specimen type from the outset is crucial in laboratory testing.