Types Of Blood Collection Tubes

When it comes to collecting blood samples for laboratory testing, healthcare professionals rely on a variety of blood collection tubes. Each tube is designed to preserve the integrity of the blood sample and ensure accurate test results. In this article, we will explore the different types of blood collection tubes commonly used in healthcare settings.

1. Serum Tubes

Serum tubes are used to collect blood samples for testing serum, which is the liquid portion of blood that remains after clotting. These tubes typically contain a clot activator, which helps to speed up the clotting process and separate the serum from the blood cells. Serum tubes are commonly used for tests such as glucose levels, lipid panels, and liver function tests.

Reference link:

LabCorp - Serum Tests

2. EDTA Tubes

EDTA tubes are coated with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), which is a chelating agent that binds to calcium in the blood and prevents it from clotting. These tubes are used for tests that require whole blood samples, such as complete blood counts (CBC), blood typing, and DNA testing. EDTA tubes are typically lavender or purple in color.

Reference link:

UC Health - EDTA Testing

3. Heparin Tubes

Heparin tubes contain lithium or sodium heparin, which are anticoagulants that prevent blood from clotting by inhibiting the activity of thrombin. These tubes are used for tests that require plasma samples, such as coagulation studies and some chemistry tests. Heparin tubes are typically green or mint green in color.

Reference link:

NCBI - Heparin Anticoagulants

4. Sodium Citrate Tubes

Sodium citrate tubes contain sodium citrate, which is an anticoagulant that binds to calcium ions in the blood and prevents clotting by inhibiting the coagulation cascade. These tubes are used for tests that require plasma samples, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) tests. Sodium citrate tubes are typically light blue in color.

Reference link:

Mayo Clinic Labs - Sodium Citrate Test

5. Plain Tubes

Plain tubes, also known as red-top tubes, do not contain any additives or anticoagulants. These tubes are used for collecting blood samples that will be allowed to clot naturally, such as for serum tests that require a non-anticoagulated sample. Plain tubes are typically red or gold in color.

Reference link:

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics - Plain Tubes

6. Fluoride Tubes

Fluoride tubes are coated with sodium fluoride and potassium oxalate, which are additives that inhibit glycolysis and preserve glucose levels in blood samples. These tubes are used for tests that require accurate glucose measurements, such as fasting blood sugar tests. Fluoride tubes are typically gray or light gray in color.

Reference link:

BD - Fluoride Tube

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of blood collection tubes is essential for healthcare professionals who collect and handle blood samples for laboratory testing. By using the right tube for each specific test, healthcare providers can ensure accurate and reliable results that help in diagnosing and treating patients effectively.

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