Proper Handling and Processing of Blue Top Tubes in Clinical Laboratories.

Summary

• Blue top tubes are commonly used in medical laboratories in the United States for specific types of testing.
• The processing of blue top tubes requires strict adherence to protocols to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results.
• Proper handling and processing of blue top tubes play a critical role in patient care and treatment decisions.

Introduction

Blue top tubes, also known as citrate tubes, are a common type of blood collection tube used in clinical laboratories in the United States. These tubes contain Sodium Citrate as an Anticoagulant and are primarily used for coagulation studies. Proper handling and processing of blue top tubes are essential to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results, which are critical for patient care and treatment decisions.

Collection of Blue Top Tubes

When collecting blood samples in blue top tubes, Healthcare Providers must follow specific protocols to ensure the integrity of the sample. The following steps outline the proper collection procedure:

1. Verify the patient's identity and confirm the test requisition.
2. Select the appropriate blue top tube size based on the volume of blood needed for testing.
3. Clean the Venipuncture site with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry completely.
4. Perform the Venipuncture according to standard protocols and collect the blood directly into the blue top tube.
5. Invert the blue top tube gently several times to ensure the proper mixing of the blood with the anticoagulant.

Handling and Transporting Blue Top Tubes

After collection, blue top tubes must be handled and transported properly to maintain the integrity of the sample. The following guidelines should be followed:

1. Label the blue top tube with the patient's name, date, and time of collection.
2. Store the blue top tube upright in a tube rack to prevent leakage or contamination.
3. Protect the blue top tube from light exposure, as citrate is sensitive to light.
4. Transport the blue top tube to the laboratory as soon as possible to prevent any potential alterations in the sample.

Processing Blue Top Tubes in the Laboratory

Once blue top tubes reach the laboratory, they undergo specific processing steps to prepare them for testing. The following protocols are typically followed:

1. Centrifuge the blue top tube at a specified speed and duration to separate the plasma from the cells.
2. Transfer the plasma to a secondary tube for further testing, ensuring no contamination occurs during the process.
3. Aliquot the plasma into smaller tubes if multiple tests are required to prevent the need for additional freeze-thaw cycles.
4. Store the plasma samples at the appropriate temperature to maintain stability until testing can be performed.

Testing Blue Top Tubes in the Laboratory

Blue top tubes are primarily used for coagulation studies, including tests such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). The laboratory follows specific protocols for running these tests, including:

1. Calibrating the coagulation analyzer according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure accurate results.
2. Running Quality Control samples along with patient samples to verify the accuracy and precision of the test.
3. Interpreting the Test Results based on established reference ranges and guidelines for each coagulation test.
4. Reporting the Test Results accurately and promptly to the healthcare provider for clinical decision-making.

Conclusion

Proper handling and processing of blue top tubes are essential for accurate and reliable Test Results in clinical laboratories in the United States. Healthcare Providers must follow specific protocols for collecting, handling, transporting, and testing blue top tubes to ensure the integrity of the samples and the quality of patient care. Adherence to these protocols plays a critical role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various medical conditions that require coagulation studies.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.

Related Videos