Impact Of Collection Tubes On Plasma Preparation

Article

Apr 5

Plasma preparation is a crucial step in medical testing and research, as the quality of plasma samples can greatly impact the accuracy and reliability of test results. One factor that is often overlooked in the plasma preparation process is the type of collection tubes used. The choice of collection tubes can have a significant impact on the quality of the plasma sample obtained, as different tubes may contain different additives or coatings that can affect the composition of the plasma.

The Importance of Collection Tubes in Plasma Preparation

Collection tubes are designed to prevent contamination of the sample and to ensure the stability of the plasma. Different types of collection tubes are available, each with their own advantages and limitations. The choice of collection tubes depends on the specific requirements of the test being performed and the desired characteristics of the plasma sample.

Types of Collection Tubes

There are several types of collection tubes commonly used in plasma preparation, each with their own unique features:

EDTA Tubes: EDTA tubes are commonly used for routine hematological tests. The EDTA in these tubes acts as an anticoagulant, preventing the blood from clotting and allowing for the collection of plasma samples.
Heparin Tubes: Heparin tubes contain lithium or sodium heparin, which acts as an anticoagulant by inhibiting thrombin. Heparin tubes are commonly used for tests that require plasma samples without clotting factors.
Citrate Tubes: Citrate tubes contain sodium citrate, which is an anticoagulant that binds to calcium ions, preventing clotting. Citrate tubes are commonly used for coagulation tests.

Impact of Collection Tubes on Plasma Quality

The choice of collection tubes can have a significant impact on the quality of the plasma sample obtained. Different additives and coatings in the tubes can affect the composition of the plasma, leading to potential interference with test results. Some of the factors that can be affected by the choice of collection tubes include:

Clotting Factors: The presence of certain additives in collection tubes can affect the activity of clotting factors in plasma samples, leading to inaccurate test results.
Hemolysis: Improper choice of collection tubes can lead to hemolysis, which is the breakdown of red blood cells. Hemolyzed samples can lead to inaccurate test results due to the release of hemoglobin into the plasma.
Interference: Some additives in collection tubes can interfere with the analysis of certain analytes in plasma samples, leading to inaccurate test results.

Best Practices for Selecting Collection Tubes

When selecting collection tubes for plasma preparation, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the test being performed and the desired characteristics of the plasma sample. Some best practices for selecting collection tubes include:

Consulting the Test Requirements

Before selecting collection tubes, it is important to consult the requirements of the test being performed. Some tests may require plasma samples with specific characteristics, such as the absence of clotting factors or the presence of certain additives. By understanding the requirements of the test, you can select the most appropriate collection tubes for the job.

Considering the Anticoagulant Used

The choice of anticoagulant used in collection tubes can greatly impact the quality of the plasma sample obtained. It is important to consider the type of anticoagulant required for the test being performed and select collection tubes that contain the appropriate anticoagulant.

Ensuring Compatibility with Equipment

When selecting collection tubes, it is important to ensure compatibility with the equipment being used for plasma preparation. Some equipment may require specific types of collection tubes in order to function properly. By ensuring compatibility with the equipment, you can avoid potential issues during the plasma preparation process.

Conclusion

The choice of collection tubes can have a significant impact on the quality of plasma samples obtained during the plasma preparation process. Different types of collection tubes contain different additives and coatings that can affect the composition of the plasma, leading to potential interference with test results. By following best practices for selecting collection tubes, such as consulting the test requirements, considering the anticoagulant used, and ensuring compatibility with equipment, you can ensure that the plasma samples obtained are of the highest quality and produce accurate test 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.