Blood specimen

A specimen of blood collected usually by venipuncture for the purposes of blood tests such as complete blood count or CBC, also called laboratory specimen or lab specimen.

Complete blood count and differential

Venous blood samples provide sufficient material for performing a variety of diagnostic tests, including concentration procedures.

Capillary blood obtained by fingerstick:

1. Label pre-cleaned slides (preferably frosted-end) with the patient’s name (or other identifier) and date and time of collection.
2. Clean the site well with alcohol; allow to dry.
3. Prick the side of the pulp of the 3rd or 4th finger (alternate sites include ear lobe, or in infants large toe or heel).
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood with clean gauze.
5. Prepare at least 2 thick smears and 2 thin smears.

Venous blood obtained by venipuncture:

1. Label collection tubes and pre-cleaned slides (preferably frosted-end) with the patient’s name (or other identifier) and date and time of collection.
2. Clean the site well with alcohol; allow to dry.
3. Collect the venous blood in a vacuum tube containing anticoagulant (preferably EDTA); alternatively, collect the blood in a syringe and transfer it to a tube with anticoagulant; mix well.
4. Prepare at least 2 thick smears and 2 thin smears as soon as possible after collection.

Blood specimen Resources
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