Blood sample collection and handling

Abstract

Blood plays an important role in human physiology, from the supply of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissues, regulating body pH and temperature, providing immunological support, to transporting waste products. Because analytes in blood can provide many clues to homeostasis, cellular metabolism, and exposure to compounds in the environment, it is commonly sampled for clinical and environmental investigations. Blood sampling is considered somewhat of an invasive technique, and care must be taken to ensure the safety and comfort of both the collector and the person the blood sample is taken from. This chapter focuses on the techniques used in blood sample collection, taking into consideration the anatomical sites for sampling, the equipment and supplies used, and sources of preanalytical errors. Since blood is a biological specimen, it is capable of transmitting pathogens. Safety and precautions in obtaining and handling blood samples will be reviewed in this chapter. Isolation of cellular and noncellular components of blood will also be discussed, along with techniques for preparing blood smears for microscopic analysis.