To increase blood flow , ensure that the collection site is warm, obtain a good puncture, and position the collection site below patient's heart. Always wipe away the first drop of blood. This first drop contains tissue fluid and clotting factors that can cause a specimen to clot quickly. Avoid overfilling the collection tube. Fill the tube no more than half full.
Tubes contain only enough anticoagulant for the stated fill volume.
Avoid scraping the site when collecting blood as this can stimulate clotting. Powdered anticoagulant does not cause a dilution of the specimen. TDH laboratory supplies this type of tube free of charge. Fill the capillary tube at least a full and no more than full. To increase blood flow , ensure that the collection site is warm, obtain a good puncture, and position the collection site below patient's heart.