Modifying Tubes For Complete Blood Count

Article

Apr 7

A complete blood count (CBC) is a common test that is used to evaluate a person's overall health and to diagnose a variety of conditions, such as anemia, infections, and blood disorders. The test measures different components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In order to accurately perform a CBC, blood samples must be collected and stored correctly in tubes that are specifically designed for this purpose. In this article, we will discuss how to modify tubes for CBC to ensure accurate and reliable test results.

Why is Tube Modification Necessary?

When collecting blood samples for a CBC, it is important to prevent clotting and hemolysis, which can affect the accuracy of the test results. Clotting occurs when the blood sample begins to coagulate, while hemolysis happens when red blood cells break open and release their contents into the sample. Both of these issues can lead to inaccurate CBC results.

Modifying tubes for CBC involves adding specific additives that help prevent clotting and hemolysis, ensuring that the blood sample remains stable and intact until it can be analyzed in the laboratory. By using tubes that have been modified for CBC, healthcare providers can obtain reliable and accurate test results for their patients.

Types of Tube Additives

There are a variety of additives that can be used to modify tubes for CBC. Some common additives include:

Anticoagulants: Anticoagulants are substances that prevent blood from clotting. Common anticoagulants used in blood collection tubes include EDTA, citrate, and heparin.
Preservatives: Preservatives are additives that help maintain the stability of the blood sample. One common preservative used in CBC tubes is sodium fluoride, which prevents glycolysis.
Stabilizers: Stabilizers are additives that help maintain the integrity of the blood sample. These additives help prevent hemolysis and other forms of sample degradation.

How to Modify Tubes for CBC

Modifying tubes for CBC is a relatively simple process that involves adding the appropriate additives to the tubes before blood collection. Here are the steps to modify tubes for CBC:

Step 1: Select the Proper Tubes

Choose tubes that are specifically designed for CBC and that have the appropriate additives already included. These tubes are typically color-coded to indicate the type of additive they contain.

Step 2: Add the Additives

If using plain tubes without additives, add the appropriate anticoagulant, preservative, or stabilizer to each tube. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding the correct amount of additive.

Step 3: Mix the Additive with the Blood Sample

After collecting the blood sample, gently invert the tube several times to ensure that the additive is thoroughly mixed with the blood. This will help prevent clotting and hemolysis during transport and storage.

Benefits of Tube Modification for CBC

Modifying tubes for CBC offers several benefits, including:

Improved accuracy of test results
Prevention of clotting and hemolysis
Increased sample stability
Reduced likelihood of sample rejection

By taking the time to modify tubes for CBC, healthcare providers can ensure that they are obtaining reliable and accurate test results for their patients.

Conclusion

Modifying tubes for CBC is a critical step in ensuring accurate and reliable test results. By using tubes that have been specifically designed and modified for CBC, healthcare providers can prevent clotting and hemolysis, leading to more accurate diagnoses and better patient care. By following the steps outlined in this article, healthcare providers can ensure that their blood samples remain stable and intact until they can be analyzed in the laboratory, resulting in more reliable CBC results for their patients.

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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.