-----Original Message-----
From: Hall Kate (RQ3) BCH
Sent: 11 June 2003 17:29
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Heparinised tubes and blood
spot cards
Dear Aled,
Collecting blood into capillary tubes and
applying to blood spot cards is not generally regarded as good practice due
to the temptation to multi blot, scrape and other behaviours resulting in a
specimen that does not soak through normally, is non-homogeneous and does
not compare with blood spot calibrants produced by dropping one large drop
of blood onto the filter paper circle. The desire to use capillary tubes
has in the in my experience come from individuals who need help in the
technique of heelprick blood collection for newborn screening purposes as is
the case for wanting to use silicone wipes to assist with droplet formation!
Using the tubes makes the whole process more
complex. Has the nurse given her or his reasons for wanting to use them?
I am assuming that the nurse means glass capillary tubes. We abandoned these
years ago as unnecessary hazards as they break.
The American NCCLS do have a publication
LA4-A3 October 1997, a summary extract visible at www.nccls.org/free/LA4-A3,
which does indicate use of capillary tubes as an alternative method of
specimen collection.
Where do your screening specimens go? It
may be appropriate to ask the relevant screening lab also.
Hope this is of some help.
Kate Hall
West Midlands Newborn Screening Programme
Birmingham Children's Hospital
Steelhouse Lane
B4 6NH
Tel: (+44) 0121 333 9903
Fax: (+44) 0121 333 9911
Email: [log in to unmask]
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