How to Draw for Transplant Genomics Tests
When collecting blood samples for Eurofins Transplant Genomics noninvasive tests for subclinical organ transplant rejection, it is vital to follow all collection and shipment procedures to ensure a viable test result. This page provides phlebotomists with detailed instructions for collecting specimens for TruGraf Kidney, TRAC Kidney, and TruGraf Liver tests.
Download the specimen collection instructions offered by Eurofins Transplant Genomics:
Step 1:
Collect Necessary Equipment and Materials
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, mask, and goggles
- Alcohol swabs
- Antiseptic solution (e.g., Chlorhexidine or Povidone-Iodine)
- Sterile needles (appropriate gauge for blood collection)
- Blood collection containers:
- TruGraf Kidney: PAXgene Blood RNA Tube
- TRAC Kidney: Streck cell-free DNA BCT
- Tourniquet or blood pressure cuff
- Adhesive bandages or sterile gauze with tape
- Biohazard waste container
- Lab requisition form
Step 2:
Prepare the Patient
- Confirm the patient’s identity using two unique identifiers, such as full name and date of birth.
- Obtain informed consent and address any questions or concerns.
- Ensure the patient is in a comfortable position, with the arm extended and accessible.
Step 3:
Apply the Tourniquet
- Select an appropriate vein for blood collection, typically in the antecubital fossa.
- Apply the tourniquet or blood pressure cuff firmly but comfortably above the intended puncture site to achieve venous distension.
Step 4:
Cleanse the Site
- Using an alcohol swab, clean the selected site in a back-and-forth motion, covering an area of at least two inches in diameter.
- Allow the site to air dry or use a sterile gauze to pat it dry.
- Apply antiseptic solution (e.g., Chlorhexidine or Povidone-Iodine) in a concentric manner, starting from the center and moving outward.
- Allow the site to air dry completely.
Step 5:
Prepare for Venipuncture
- Verify the patient’s comfort and readiness for the procedure.
- Position yourself in a comfortable stance, maintaining proper body mechanics.
- Prepare the blood collection container or vacutainer tube by inserting the needle securely.
Step 6:
Perform Venipuncture
- With one hand, anchor the patient’s arm by gently pulling the skin taut below the puncture site.
- With your other hand, hold the needle at a 15-30 degree angle and perform a quick, smooth, and controlled puncture into the vein.
- Observe blood flow into the collection container or tube, filling the required volume as specified for the test.
Step 7:
Remove the Tourniquet
- Release the tourniquet or blood pressure cuff before withdrawing the needle from the patient’s arm.
- Maintain pressure at the puncture site using sterile gauze or a cotton ball to control bleeding.
Step 8:
Secure the Site
- Withdraw the needle smoothly and swiftly from the patient’s arm, while maintaining pressure.
- Immediately apply an adhesive bandage or sterile gauze with tape to the puncture site.
- Instruct the patient to apply pressure to the site and keep the arm extended for a few minutes.
Step 9:
Dispose of Sharps and Other Waste
- Discard the used needle into a sharps container without recapping or manipulating it.
- Dispose of all other contaminated items, including gloves and used materials, into the biohazard waste container.
Step 10:
Label and Handle the Specimen
- Label the blood collection container or vacutainer tube with the patient’s identification details according to your organization’s protocols.
- Handle the specimen with care, ensuring proper labeling and adherence to any transportation or storage requirements.
Step 11:
Document the procedure
- Document the blood collection procedure accurately, including any relevant observations or complications.
- Complete the lab requisition form, providing all necessary information for accurate processing of the specimen.
- Ship the sample in accordance with the specific requirements of each test.
Specimen Collection and Shipping for TruGraf Kidney Tests
- Draw two tubes of whole blood in a PAXgene Blood RNA Tube. To maintain proper volumes of blood and anticoagulant, the tube must be completely full.
- For PAXgene specimen collection, keep the tube upright below the patient’s arm. Note that at least 10 seconds are needed for blood collection. Make sure blood has stopped flowing before removing the tube.
- If the PAXgene tube is the only specimen requested, collect a small amount of blood into a Discard Tube before collecting blood into the PAXgene tube. If there are additional samples to be drawn, the PAXgene Blood tube should be the last tube drawn.
- For PAXgene tubes, a 21G or 22G needle is recommended for optimal fill times.
- Mix tubes thoroughly by gently upending the tube 8-10 times immediately after venipuncture.
- PAXgene tubes may be stored at room temperature for up to 72 hours, refrigerated for up to 5 days, or frozen for 5 or more days.
- All samples must be labeled with patient’s name, date, and collection time. Each specimen should be accompanied by a test requisition form.
- Samples may be shipped any day between Monday and Friday. For specimens that are shipped on Friday, label for Saturday Delivery.
- Specimens must be received and processed no more than 7 days after sample collection.
- PAXgene specimens can be shipped through ambient shipping for next day arrival between Monday and Friday, when received within 48 hours of collection. Alternately, they can be shipped refrigerated or frozen (on cold pack or dry ice) when received within 5 days.
Specimen Collection and Shipping for TRAC Kidney Tests
- Draw whole blood in a Streck cell-free DNA Blood Collection Tube (10mL)
- All tubes must be filled appropriately to ensure proper ratios: Streck tubes need to be completely full.
- Fill Streck cell-Free DNA tubes after EDTA tubes (purple top) and before Glycolytic inhibitor tubes (grey top). Fill an EDTA tube first as a waste tube prior to filling cell-Free DNA tubes if a Streck tube immediately follows a heparin tube.
- Partially fill a non-additive or EDTA discard tube first in order to eliminate air or ‘dead space’ from tubing when using a winged collection set and the Cell-Free DNA BCT is the first tube drawn.
- Mix tubes thoroughly by gently upending the tube 8-10 times immediately after venipuncture.
- Specimens must be received and processed no more than 7 days after sample collection.
Please call Client Services at 1-800-305-5198 to order a kit for your lab, or if you have any questions about specimen collection or shipment.