What is the correct order of draw for venipuncture?

The correct order of draw for venipuncture is essential to ensure accurate laboratory test results and to avoid contamination between different types of blood tubes. The selected answer reflects the standard sequence recommended in phlebotomy practices.

Starting with blood cultures is critical because they are intended to detect microorganisms in the blood. By collecting them first, you minimize the risk of contamination from other tube additives. Next, the light blue tube is typically used for coagulation studies and contains sodium citrate, which can interfere with other tests if drawn later in the sequence. Following this, a red tube can be utilized for serum tests or those requiring no additive, while the gold tube, which often contains a gel separator, is usually drawn last within this sequence. Using this order ensures that the additives from subsequent tubes do not affect the test results of the tubes collected earlier.

Each of the other sequences presented has issues with their internal logic or compliance with recommended standards, which could lead to compromised test results due to potential contamination or interference from additive substances present in tubes drawn earlier. Therefore, the choice that begins with blood cultures and follows with light blue, red, and gold correctly adheres to the proper protocol of venipuncture.