Types Of Anticoagulants In Collection Tubes

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Apr 5

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When drawing blood for laboratory testing, it is important to use the appropriate collection tubes with the right anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting. Different types of anticoagulants are added to collection tubes depending on the tests being performed. In this blog post, we will discuss the various types of anticoagulants used in collection tubes and their uses.

Heparin

Heparin is a commonly used anticoagulant in collection tubes. It works by inhibiting the activity of thrombin, which is necessary for blood clot formation. There are two main types of heparin: unfractionated heparin and low molecular weight heparin.

Unfractionated Heparin

Unfractionated heparin is a natural anticoagulant that is derived from animal tissues. It is often used in collection tubes for tests that require plasma, such as coagulation studies. Unfractionated heparin is available in liquid form and is mixed with blood immediately after collection to prevent clotting.

Low Molecular Weight Heparin

Low molecular weight heparin is a synthetic form of heparin that has a smaller molecular weight than unfractionated heparin. It is often used in collection tubes for tests that require plasma or whole blood with anticoagulant, such as tests for hematology and chemistry. Low molecular weight heparin is available in pre-filled tubes for convenience.

EDTA

EDTA, or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, is another commonly used anticoagulant in collection tubes. It works by chelating calcium ions, which are necessary for blood clot formation. EDTA is available in dipotassium and tripotassium forms.

Dipotassium EDTA

Dipotassium EDTA is often used in collection tubes for tests that require whole blood, such as hematology studies. It is available in liquid form and must be mixed with blood immediately after collection to prevent clotting. Dipotassium EDTA is preferred for tests that require platelet counts.

Tripotassium EDTA

Tripotassium EDTA is a more stable form of EDTA that is often used in collection tubes for tests that require plasma, such as chemistry studies. It is available in both liquid and powder form, with the liquid form being more commonly used. Tripotassium EDTA is preferred for tests that require serum separation.

Sodium Citrate

Sodium citrate is an anticoagulant that works by binding calcium ions, which are necessary for blood clot formation. It is often used in collection tubes for tests that require plasma, such as coagulation studies. Sodium citrate is available in both liquid and powder form.

3.2% Sodium Citrate

3.2% sodium citrate is the most commonly used concentration in collection tubes for coagulation studies. It is available in pre-filled tubes for convenience and must be mixed with blood immediately after collection to prevent clotting.

4.5% Sodium Citrate

4.5% sodium citrate is a higher concentration of sodium citrate that is used for special tests that require a higher anticoagulant concentration. It is available in powder form and must be mixed with blood immediately after collection.

Citrate Phosphate Dextrose (CPD)

Citrate phosphate dextrose (CPD) is a combination of anticoagulants that works by chelating calcium ions and providing nutrients to preserve red blood cells. It is often used in collection tubes for blood banking studies, such as cross-matching and compatibility testing. CPD is available in liquid form and must be mixed with blood immediately after collection to prevent clotting.

Citrate Phosphate Dextrose Adenine (CPDA-1)

Citrate phosphate dextrose adenine (CPDA-1) is a modified form of CPD that also provides adenine to preserve red blood cells. It is often used in collection tubes for blood banking studies, such as transfusion medicine. CPDA-1 is available in liquid form and must be mixed with blood immediately after collection.

Conclusion

There are various types of anticoagulants used in collection tubes for laboratory testing, each with its own specific uses. It is important to use the right anticoagulant in the appropriate collection tube to ensure accurate test results. By understanding the different types of anticoagulants and their uses, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions when collecting blood samples for analysis.

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