Final answer:
The first tube to select when adhering to the proper order of draw in phlebotomy is typically the blood culture bottle or yellow-topped tube to minimize contamination and preserve sample integrity. Following tubes should be drawn as per a specific sequence based on their additives and tests required.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of phlebotomy, the proper order of draw refers to the sequence in which blood collection tubes should be filled during a multi-tube blood draw. This sequence is important to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the accuracy of test results. The blood culture bottle or yellow-topped tube, which contains a sterile solution for blood culture specimen collection, should generally be drawn first. This minimizes the risk of contamination and ensures the integrity of the sample. Following the initial blood culture bottle, other tubes are drawn in a specific sequence according to their additive and intended testing. This sequence often follows with a light blue coagulation tube, red or gold serum tube, green heparin tube, lavender EDTA tube, and grey oxalate/fluoride tube. The order may vary slightly depending on the institution's guidelines or specific tests required.