Understanding the Different Blood Collection Tube Colors in Phlebotomy: A Comprehensive Guide
Summary
- There are multiple blood collection tube colors used in phlebotomy in the United States.
- Each color tube is used for specific types of tests to ensure accurate and reliable results.
- Understanding the different tube colors is essential for healthcare professionals working in clinical labs, hospitals, and home healthcare settings.
Introduction
Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from a patient for various medical tests and procedures. Blood collection tubes come in different colors, each representing a specific additive or Anticoagulant used to preserve the blood sample for testing. In this article, we will discuss the different blood collection tube colors used in phlebotomy in the United States and the specific tests performed with each color.
Common Blood Collection Tube Colors
1. Red
The red blood collection tube is used for collecting serum samples. Serum is the clear fluid that separates from blood when it is allowed to clot. This tube does not contain any additives or anticoagulants, allowing the blood to clot naturally. Tests performed using a red tube include:
- Chemistry panels
- Lipid panels
- Liver function tests
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Hemoglobin A1c
- Blood typing
- Prothrombin Time (PT)
- Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)
- D-Dimer
- Electrolyte panels
- Renal function tests
- Ammonia levels
- Glucose levels
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
- Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
2. Lavender or Purple
The lavender or purple blood collection tube contains EDTA (ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid), an Anticoagulant that prevents the blood from clotting. This tube is commonly used for hematological tests that require whole blood. Tests performed using a lavender tube include:
3. Light Blue
The light blue blood collection tube contains Sodium Citrate, which is an Anticoagulant that binds to calcium ions in the blood, preventing clotting. This tube is used for coagulation studies to assess blood clotting ability. Tests performed using a light blue tube include:
4. Green
The green blood collection tube contains Heparin, an Anticoagulant that inhibits thrombin formation. This tube is used for a variety of chemistry tests that require plasma. Tests performed using a green tube include:
5. Gray
The gray blood collection tube contains Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate, which are additives that preserve glucose levels in the blood sample. This tube is used for glucose testing and is commonly used in diabetic monitoring. Tests performed using a gray tube include:
Conclusion
Understanding the different blood collection tube colors used in phlebotomy is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results. Each color tube is specifically designed for certain tests and contains additives or anticoagulants to preserve the integrity of the blood sample. By familiarizing themselves with the various tube colors and their corresponding tests, phlebotomists, nurses, and other healthcare workers can effectively collect and process blood samples for diagnostic purposes.
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