Common Types of Specimen Containers Used in Medical Labs
Summary
- Specimen containers are essential tools used in medical labs for collecting and storing various biological samples.
- Common types of specimen containers include urine containers, blood collection tubes, sterile containers, and sputum cups.
- Each type of Specimen Container is designed for a specific type of sample and ensures proper preservation and transportation of the specimen for accurate testing.
Introduction
Medical labs play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various health conditions. One of the essential tools used in these labs is specimen containers. These containers are used to collect and store biological samples such as blood, urine, and sputum for analysis. In this article, we will explore the common types of specimen containers used in medical labs.
Urine Containers
Urine containers are one of the most common types of specimen containers used in medical labs. These containers are used to collect urine samples for urinalysis and other Diagnostic Tests. Urine containers come in various sizes and materials, including plastic and glass. They are typically equipped with a screw-on lid to prevent leakage and contamination of the sample.
Features of Urine Containers:
- Leak-proof design
- Wide mouth for easy collection
- Graduated markings for accurate volume measurement
Blood Collection Tubes
Blood collection tubes are another essential type of Specimen Container used in medical labs. These tubes are used to collect blood samples for various tests, including complete blood count (CBC), glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. Blood collection tubes come in different colors, each indicating the type of additive present in the tube for specific tests.
Types of Blood Collection Tubes:
- Red Top tube (no additive)
- Lavender Top tube (EDTA additive for CBC)
- Gray top tube (glucose preservative)
Sterile Containers
Sterile containers are used to collect and store various biological samples, such as wound swabs, sputum, and stool samples. These containers are pre-sterilized to ensure the integrity of the sample and prevent contamination. Sterile containers typically have a tight-sealing lid to maintain the sample's freshness during transportation to the lab.
Types of Sterile Containers:
- Swab collection containers
- Sputum collection cups
- Stool collection containers
Sputum Cups
Sputum cups are specifically designed for collecting and storing sputum samples for diagnostic testing. These cups come in transparent plastic material, allowing the lab technicians to inspect the sample visually. Sputum cups are equipped with screw-on lids to prevent sample leakage and maintain the sample's integrity during transportation.
Features of Sputum Cups:
- Transparent material for visual inspection
- Tight-sealing lid to prevent leakage
- Wide base for stability
Conclusion
Specimen containers are essential tools used in medical labs for collecting and storing various biological samples. Common types of specimen containers include urine containers, blood collection tubes, sterile containers, and sputum cups. Each type of Specimen Container is designed for a specific type of sample and ensures proper preservation and transportation of the specimen for accurate testing.
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