Clot Activator Additive Tubes for Blood Sample Collection: Types of Samples and Proper Handling

Summary

• Clot Activator additive tubes are commonly used for blood sample collection in urgent care clinics.
• The most suitable blood samples for collection in Clot Activator additive tubes are serum samples.
• Proper handling and processing of blood samples in Clot Activator additive tubes is crucial to ensure accurate Test Results.

Introduction

Urgent care clinics play a vital role in providing convenient and timely healthcare services to patients with acute medical needs. One common procedure performed in urgent care clinics is blood sample collection for diagnostic testing. Clot Activator additive tubes are frequently used for blood collection due to their ability to promote clotting and separate serum from the rest of the blood components. In this article, we will discuss the types of blood samples that are best suited for collection in Clot Activator additive tubes.

Serum Samples

Serum samples are the most suitable type of blood samples for collection in Clot Activator additive tubes. Serum is the clear, yellowish fluid that remains after blood has clotted and the clot has been removed. When blood is collected in a Clot Activator additive tube, the clotting process is accelerated, resulting in the separation of serum from the clot. Serum samples are commonly used for a wide range of Diagnostic Tests, including lipid profiles, liver function tests, and hormone assays.

Plasma Samples

While Clot Activator additive tubes are primarily designed for serum collection, they can also be used for plasma collection. Plasma is the liquid portion of blood that remains after the cells have been removed. When blood is collected in a Clot Activator additive tube and centrifuged, the plasma can be separated from the cellular components. Plasma samples are typically used for tests that require anticoagulated blood, such as coagulation studies and certain infectious disease tests.

Whole Blood Samples

Clot Activator additive tubes are not ideal for collecting whole blood samples, as they are specifically designed to promote clotting and separate serum or plasma from the rest of the blood components. If a whole blood sample is required for a particular test, a different type of blood collection tube, such as an EDTA tube or a Heparin tube, should be used. These tubes contain anticoagulants that prevent clotting and maintain the blood in a liquid state.

Proper Handling and Processing

Regardless of the type of blood sample collected in a Clot Activator additive tube, proper handling and processing are essential to ensure accurate Test Results. After blood is collected, the tube should be gently inverted several times to ensure proper mixing with the Clot Activator. The tube should then be allowed to clot for the recommended amount of time before being centrifuged to separate the serum or plasma. Improper handling of the tube can lead to hemolysis, which can interfere with Test Results.

Conclusion

Clot Activator additive tubes are a valuable tool for blood sample collection in urgent care clinics. While these tubes are best suited for collecting serum samples, they can also be used for plasma collection. It is important to use the appropriate type of blood collection tube based on the specific test requirements to ensure accurate and reliable results. Proper handling and processing of blood samples are essential to prevent preanalytical errors and ensure the quality of diagnostic testing in urgent care settings.

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