Phlebotomy Tube Color Cheat Sheet

Phlebotomy is a vital procedure in healthcare that involves drawing blood from patients for various purposes such as diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of health conditions. One essential aspect of phlebotomy is knowing which tubes to use for different blood tests, as indicated by the color of the tubes. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on phlebotomy tube colors, their corresponding additives, and the tests they are used for.

The Importance of Understanding Phlebotomy Tube Colors

Phlebotomy tube colors serve as a visual aid for healthcare professionals to ensure that the correct tubes are used for specific blood tests. Using the wrong tube can lead to inaccurate test results, potential specimen rejection, and compromised patient care. Therefore, having a good understanding of phlebotomy tube colors is crucial for all phlebotomists, nurses, and medical laboratory technicians.

Phlebotomy Tube Color Cheat Sheet

Below is a cheat sheet of phlebotomy tube colors along with their corresponding additives and the tests they are commonly used for:

Red or Gold/Yellow Tube

1. Additive: Clot activator or serum separator gel

2. Tests: Chemistry tests, serology tests, and blood bank studies

Lavender/Purple Tube

1. Additive: EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)

2. Tests: Complete blood count (CBC), blood typing, and cross-matching

Light Blue Tube

1. Additive: Sodium citrate

2. Tests: Coagulation studies, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)

Green Tube

1. Additive: Heparin or sodium heparin

2. Tests: Chemistry tests, ammonia levels, and plasma or whole blood measurements

Gray Tube

1. Additive: Potassium oxalate and sodium fluoride

2. Tests: Glucose levels, alcohol levels, and lactic acid

Tips for Phlebotomy Tube Collection In addition to knowing the phlebotomy tube colors and their uses, healthcare professionals should also follow these tips for proper tube collection: Check the expiration date of the tubes before use. Label each tube with the patient's name, date of birth, and identification number. Follow the correct order of draw to prevent cross-contamination of additives between tubes. Use a needle holder to secure the needle during blood collection. Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site after blood collection to promote clotting.

Final Thoughts

Understanding phlebotomy tube colors is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure accurate blood test results and provide high-quality patient care. By following the color-coded system and knowing the corresponding additives and tests for each tube, phlebotomists can streamline the blood collection process and improve the overall efficiency of laboratory testing.

Remember to always double-check the tube colors, labels, and patient information before collecting blood samples to minimize errors and ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

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