Blood Collection Tubes For Infectious Disease

Article

Apr 7

When it comes to diagnosing and monitoring infectious diseases, blood collection tubes play a crucial role in the process. These tubes are specifically designed to collect blood samples in a way that preserves the integrity of the samples and ensures accurate test results. In this article, we will explore the different types of blood collection tubes used for infectious disease testing and the importance of selecting the right tube for each specific test.

Types of Blood Collection Tubes

There are several different types of blood collection tubes that are used for infectious disease testing. Each type of tube is designed to preserve the blood sample in a specific way, depending on the tests that will be performed on the sample. Some of the most commonly used blood collection tubes for infectious disease testing include:

1. Serum Separator Tubes

Serum separator tubes are specially designed to separate the blood sample into its individual components, such as serum and plasma. These tubes contain a gel separator that creates a barrier between the serum and the blood cells, allowing for easy separation of the two components after centrifugation. Serum separator tubes are commonly used for tests that require serum samples, such as antibody testing for infectious diseases.

2. EDTA Tubes

EDTA tubes contain the anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), which prevents blood from clotting by chelating calcium ions. These tubes are commonly used for tests that require whole blood samples, such as complete blood count (CBC) testing for infectious diseases. EDTA tubes are also used for molecular diagnostic tests, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.

3. Sodium Citrate Tubes

Sodium citrate tubes contain the anticoagulant sodium citrate, which binds with calcium ions to prevent blood from clotting. These tubes are commonly used for tests that require plasma samples, such as coagulation testing for infectious diseases. Sodium citrate tubes are also used for tests that require platelet-poor plasma samples.

Importance of Selecting the Right Blood Collection Tube

Choosing the right blood collection tube is essential for ensuring accurate test results in infectious disease testing. The type of tube used can impact the quality of the blood sample and the reliability of the test results. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a blood collection tube for infectious disease testing:

1. Type of Test

The type of test being performed will determine the type of blood collection tube that is needed. For example, tests that require serum samples will require the use of serum separator tubes, while tests that require whole blood samples will require the use of EDTA tubes.

2. Anticoagulant

Some tests require the use of specific anticoagulants to prevent the blood sample from clotting. It is important to select a blood collection tube that contains the appropriate anticoagulant for the test being performed. Using the wrong anticoagulant can lead to inaccurate test results.

3. Sample Integrity

Preserving the integrity of the blood sample is crucial for ensuring accurate test results. Using the wrong type of blood collection tube can cause hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells) or clotting, which can affect the reliability of the test results. It is important to select a tube that will preserve the sample in the best possible condition.

Overall, selecting the right blood collection tube is essential for ensuring accurate and reliable test results in infectious disease testing. By understanding the different types of blood collection tubes available and the specific requirements of each test, healthcare providers can ensure that they are collecting samples in a way that will yield the best possible results.

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Lauren Davis, BS, CPT

Lauren Davis is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Miami. With 5 years of hands-on experience in both hospital and mobile phlebotomy settings, Lauren has developed a passion for ensuring the safety and comfort of patients during blood draws. She has extensive experience in pediatric, geriatric, and inpatient phlebotomy, and is committed to advancing the practices of blood collection to improve both accuracy and patient satisfaction.

Lauren enjoys writing about the latest phlebotomy techniques, patient communication, and the importance of adhering to best practices in laboratory safety. She is also an advocate for continuing education in the field and frequently conducts workshops to help other phlebotomists stay updated with industry standards.