Community Nutrition

COMMUNITY NUTRITION 3 (1+2)

Lesson 5 : Biochemical Assessment of Nutritional Status

Collection of Blood samples

1. The sample to be taken for the analysis of nutrients varies with the type of nutrient analysis, eg: plasma is required for examination of albumin, vitamin A, Carotene, ascorbic acid and alkaline phosphatase. Fresh whole blood preserved with sequestrene is used for the determination of haemoglobin and haemotocrit.
2. Blood samples are collected into stoppered or screw-capped glass vials containing an anticoagulant, such a dried oxalate or heparin lithium.
3. Each container should have a previously affixed blank label.
4. Blood obtained by finger prick can be collected in heparinized capillary tubes and sealed.
5. All blood samples must be kept chilled until tested.
6. In the field, this is achieved in thermas flasks, which contains ice cubes or in the mobile refrigerators.