Blood Storage In Collection Tubes
Blood collection tubes are a crucial component in the healthcare industry, as they are used to store blood samples for various diagnostic tests and procedures. These tubes come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, each serving a specific purpose. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of blood storage in collection tubes and how they play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of blood samples.
The Importance of Proper Blood Storage
Proper blood storage is essential to ensure accurate test results and prevent contamination of samples. Blood samples need to be stored in the right conditions to maintain their stability and integrity. Improper storage can lead to hemolysis, clot formation, or bacterial growth, which can affect the accuracy of test results and jeopardize patient care.
When blood is drawn from a patient, it needs to be transferred into a collection tube that is designed to preserve the blood sample until it can be tested. Different types of collection tubes are used depending on the type of test being performed and the analytes being measured. It is important to use the right type of tube and follow proper storage procedures to ensure the reliability of test results.
Types of Blood Collection Tubes
Serum Tubes
Serum tubes are used to collect blood samples for tests that require serum, such as chemistry and serology tests. These tubes do not contain anticoagulants, allowing the blood to clot and separate from the serum. After centrifugation, the serum can be used for various tests without interference from anticoagulants.
EDTA Tubes
EDTA tubes contain the anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, which prevents blood clotting by binding to calcium ions. These tubes are used for tests that require whole blood or plasma, such as hematology and blood bank tests. EDTA tubes are available in lavender, pink, and purple tops, depending on the concentration of the anticoagulant.
Heparin Tubes
Heparin tubes contain the anticoagulant heparin, which inhibits thrombin formation and prevents blood clotting. These tubes are used for tests that require plasma, such as coagulation and chemistry tests. Heparin tubes are available in green tops for lithium heparin and light green tops for sodium heparin.
Proper Blood Storage Procedures
Proper blood storage is essential to maintain the stability of blood samples and ensure accurate test results. Here are some important guidelines for storing blood in collection tubes:
Temperature Control
Store blood samples at the appropriate temperature to prevent deterioration and maintain sample integrity.
Refrigerate samples that require cold storage, such as glucose and ammonia tests.
Keep samples at room temperature for tests that require ambient storage, such as blood gas analysis.
Freeze samples for tests that require freezing, such as cryoglobulin and cold agglutinin tests.
Specimen Labeling
Properly label each blood collection tube with the patient's name, date of birth, and unique identifier.
Label the tube with the date and time of collection to track the sample's stability and validity.
Ensure that the label is securely attached to the tube to prevent it from falling off during storage or transport.
Handling and Transportation
Avoid excessive agitation of blood samples to prevent hemolysis and ensure accurate test results.
Handle samples with care to prevent leaks or spills that could contaminate other specimens or pose a risk of infection.
Transport samples in a secure container to prevent breakage or exposure to external contaminants.
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