Citrate Tubes in Laboratory Testing: Plasma Vs Serum - Proper Procedures For Handling
Summary
- Citrate tubes are commonly used for plasma tests.
- The citrate additive in the tube is used to prevent blood clotting by binding to calcium ions.
- It is crucial to follow proper procedures when collecting and handling citrate tubes to ensure accurate Test Results.
Introduction
Medical professionals rely on various types of tubes and additives to collect blood samples for diagnostic testing. One common question that arises is whether citrate tubes are used for plasma or serum tests. In this article, we will delve into this topic and explore the role of citrate tubes in laboratory testing.
Citrate Tubes: Plasma or Serum Tests?
Plasma Tests
Citrate tubes are primarily used for plasma tests in laboratory settings. These tubes contain an Anticoagulant known as Sodium Citrate, which helps prevent blood clotting by binding to calcium ions. By using citrate tubes, Healthcare Providers can obtain a plasma sample that is free of clotting factors, making it ideal for tests that require plasma, such as coagulation studies.
Serum Tests
Unlike citrate tubes, serum tubes do not contain any anticoagulants. As a result, these tubes are used to collect blood samples for serum tests, where the liquid portion of the blood is obtained after the blood has clotted and the clot has been removed. Serum tests are commonly used to assess various analytes, such as electrolytes, hormones, and enzymes.
How Citrate Tubes Work
The citrate additive in citrate tubes works by binding to calcium ions in the blood, which are essential for the clotting process. By sequestering calcium ions, citrate prevents the blood from clotting during the collection and processing of samples. This is crucial for obtaining accurate Test Results, especially for tests that require plasma samples.
Proper Handling of Citrate Tubes
Collection
- Before collecting blood samples in citrate tubes, Healthcare Providers must ensure that the tube is labeled correctly with the patient's information.
- When collecting blood, it is important to use a needle size appropriate for the tube to prevent hemolysis and ensure proper mixing of the blood with the citrate additive.
Processing
- After collection, citrate tubes should be gently inverted several times to ensure thorough mixing of the blood with the anticoagulant.
- It is crucial to follow the recommended centrifugation protocols to separate the plasma from the cellular components of the blood without causing hemolysis.
Storage
- Citrate tubes should be stored at the appropriate temperature according to the manufacturer's instructions to maintain the integrity of the samples.
- Improper storage of citrate tubes can lead to the degradation of the blood sample and inaccurate Test Results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, citrate tubes are primarily used for plasma tests in laboratory settings. The citrate additive in these tubes helps prevent blood clotting by binding to calcium ions, making them ideal for tests that require plasma samples. It is essential for Healthcare Providers to follow proper procedures when collecting and handling citrate tubes to ensure accurate Test Results. By understanding the role of citrate tubes in laboratory testing, medical professionals can optimize the quality of diagnostic testing for patient care.
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