VETSCAN VS2
Sample collection
Keys to success
The quality of the sample analyzed is directly related to the quality of the result.
- Use the largest vein and needle appropriate for blood collection (<23 gauge is preferred)
- Avoid use of needles >23 gauge for most species. Certain exotic species may require a smaller needle
- Minimize suction on the syringe and do not draw back too quickly
- Use the largest vein and needle appropriate for blood collection (< or equal to 23 gauge is preferred)
- Avoid use of needles >23 gauge for most species. Certain exotic species may require a smaller needle
- Allow venipuncture site to dry completely prior to pulling sample
- Remove the needle from the syringe before dispensing into the blood tube unless using a closed vacuum blood collection system
- Fill lithium heparin tube to manufacturer’s sample fill line
- Immediately after filling the blood tube, replace the cap and invert 8-10 times to sufficiently mix with the anticoagulant. For tubes that are 1.3 mL or smaller, 10-15 inversions are recommended.
- Select blood tubes based on the testing requirements and size of the patient (Microtainer® 1.3 mL, 3 mL, 5 mL)
- Ensure the blood tubes have not expired
- Always fill blood tubes in the correct order to avoid contamination
- EDTA contamination of chemistry samples may affect electrolyte results and cause a falsely low Ca and falsely high K+
- If improper tube-filling order occurs, the sample should be redrawn and dispensed in the appropriate order and the rotor rerun
- Do not occlude or hold off the vein for more than a few seconds before venipuncture
- For feline samples collected from the medial saphenous vein, a vacuum blood collection system is recommended instead of a syringe
- Run the sample as soon as possible after drawing
- Lithium heparin whole blood samples at room temperature must be run within 1 hour1
- Serum and plasma samples may be stored refrigerated for up to 48 hours1
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*If you are a pet owner looking for treatment recommendations, please contact your veterinarian.
Reference: 1. Monti, P, Archer, J, BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Clinical Pathology, 2016, 11-26 (v2.0) - p11, Column 2 (p.1) Food consumption can affect biochemistry tests, in particular cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose and urea.