What is the proper way to label blood collection tubes?

Labeling blood collection tubes accurately is critical for maintaining patient safety and ensuring proper specimen management. The correct method involves labeling with the patient's information within 5 minutes post-draw. This timing is essential because it helps to ensure that the correct information is associated with the specimen while the details are fresh in the phlebotomist's mind.

Labeling immediately after the draw minimizes the risk of mislabeling or mixing up samples, which can lead to serious clinical errors. It is also a best practice that aligns with ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards for labeling, promoting accuracy in patient identification and specimen tracking throughout the diagnostic process.

The other options do not provide the same level of safety and accuracy. Labeling after the draw or in the laboratory can introduce the chance for errors, such as misidentifying the patient or the specimen. Labeling before handling the patient could also lead to confusion if the patient is not yet identified, allowing for possible mix-ups if done prematurely. This highlights the importance of timely and accurate labeling immediately after collection.