The Order of Draw Series: Part Five - EDTA Tubes
This week, we're examining EDTA tubes and discovering why the most commonly drawn tube in many facilities must wait until the fifth position despite its frequent use
Shanise Keith, February 03, 2026
Recent Posts
The Order of Draw Series: Part Four - Heparin Tubes
This week, we're examining green top heparin tubes—and discovering why tubes that prevent clotting must come after tubes that depend on clotting.
Shanise Keith, January 27, 2026
The Order of Draw Series: Part Three - Serum Tubes
This week, we're examining serum tubes—plain red tops and gold serum separator tubes (SST)—and discovering why these tubes must be drawn before tubes containing EDTA, heparin, or other anticoagulants
Shanise Keith, January 20, 2026
The Order of Draw Series (Deep Dive): Part Two - Sodium Citrate Tubes
This is the second post in our Order of Draw Deep Dive series. Last week, we explored blood culture bottles and why sterility makes them first in the collection sequence. This week, we're examining light blue top tubes and discovering why coagulation tes
Shanise Keith, January 13, 2026
The Order of Draw Series (Deep Dive): Part One - Blood Culture Bottles
This is the first post in our Order of Draw Deep Dive series, where we'll explore the history, science, and clinical significance of each tube type in the CLSI-recommended collection sequence.
Shanise Keith, January 06, 2026
2026 New Year's Resolutions for Phlebotomists
What we should focus on for the new year, (and what we wish patients would resolve too).
Shanise Keith, December 30, 2025
Aletta: An Update About Vitestro's Robotic Blood Draw Device
Examining the Aletta blood draw machine, and its potential impact on our profession.
Shanise Keith, December 16, 2025
Teacher Tips: Staying Present While Stepping Back
Teaching problem solving and helping build independence in new phlebotomists.
Shanise Keith, December 09, 2025
The History of Butterfly Needles
And why you shouldn’t use them for everything.
Shanise Keith, December 02, 2025
A Letter to Phlebotomists
A Thanksgiving Message to Phlebotomists Everywhere
Shanise Keith, November 25, 2025