Proper Storage Requirements for Blood Collection Tubes with Additives
Summary
- Blood collection tubes containing additives have specific storage requirements to ensure accurate Test Results.
- It is important to store these tubes at the right temperature and to avoid exposure to light and air.
- Proper storage of blood collection tubes can help maintain the integrity of the samples and prevent contamination.
Introduction
When it comes to collecting blood samples for diagnostic testing, it is essential to ensure that the samples are stored properly to maintain their integrity and prevent contamination. Blood collection tubes containing additives are commonly used in healthcare settings to collect blood for various tests. These tubes are designed to preserve the stability of the blood samples and help facilitate accurate Test Results. However, they have specific storage requirements that must be followed to ensure the reliability of the Test Results.
Why are additives used in blood collection tubes?
Additives are substances added to blood collection tubes to help preserve the stability of the blood samples and prevent clotting. They serve different purposes, such as anticoagulation, preservation of cellular components, and stabilization of analytes. The use of additives in blood collection tubes can help ensure accurate Test Results and prevent pre-analytical errors.
Types of additives used in blood collection tubes
There are several types of additives used in blood collection tubes, each serving a specific purpose:
- Anticoagulants: prevent blood clotting by binding to calcium ions and inhibiting coagulation factors.
- Preservatives: help maintain the stability of cellular components and analytes in the blood sample.
- Stabilizers: prevent degradation of analytes and help maintain their concentration in the sample.
Commonly used additives in blood collection tubes
Some of the most commonly used additives in blood collection tubes include:
- EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid): an Anticoagulant used for whole blood analysis and cell counting.
- Heparin: an Anticoagulant used for plasma analysis and clinical chemistry tests.
- ACD (acid-citrate-dextrose): an Anticoagulant used for blood cell preservation and immunohematology tests.
Storage requirements for blood collection tubes with additives
Proper storage of blood collection tubes containing additives is crucial to ensure the accuracy of Test Results and prevent sample contamination. The following are some of the key storage requirements for these tubes:
Temperature
It is important to store blood collection tubes at the appropriate temperature to prevent sample degradation and ensure the stability of analytes. Most blood collection tubes with additives should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C) unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer. Freezing or refrigerating these tubes can lead to sample hemolysis and inaccurate Test Results.
Light sensitivity
Some additives in blood collection tubes are light-sensitive and can degrade when exposed to light. It is essential to store these tubes in a dark place or use light-resistant containers to protect the samples from light exposure. Failure to do so can result in sample degradation and compromised Test Results.
Air exposure
Exposure to air can also affect the quality of blood samples in collection tubes containing additives. It is crucial to seal the tubes securely after collection to prevent air exposure and maintain the integrity of the samples. Improper sealing can lead to sample contamination and inaccurate Test Results.
Shaking and mixing
Some additives in blood collection tubes require gentle mixing to ensure proper distribution and stability of the samples. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding shaking and mixing of the tubes to prevent clotting or degradation of the samples. Improper mixing can result in inaccurate Test Results and the need for sample recollection.
Conclusion
Proper storage of blood collection tubes containing additives is essential to ensure the accuracy of Test Results and prevent contamination. By following the specific storage requirements for these tubes, healthcare professionals can maintain the integrity of the samples and provide reliable diagnostic information to patients. It is crucial to store these tubes at the right temperature, avoid light exposure, seal them securely, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for shaking and mixing. Adhering to these storage requirements can help Healthcare Providers deliver high-quality care and improve patient outcomes.
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