Understanding the Different Phlebotomy Tube Colors and Associated Tests
Summary
- Phlebotomy tube colors vary in the United States to signify different types of tests.
- Understanding the different tube colors can help healthcare professionals ensure proper handling and processing of blood samples.
- Each color tube is associated with specific tests to be conducted in clinical labs and hospitals.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
- Liver Function Tests (LFT)
- Lipid Panel
- Prothrombin Time (PT)
- Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)
- D-Dimer
- Electrolyte Panel
- Ammonia Level
- Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)
- Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBC with Diff)
- Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
- Hemoglobin A1C
- Glucose Level
- Alcohol Level
- Lactic Acid Level
Common Phlebotomy Tube Colors and their Associated Tests
Red Tubes
Red tubes are commonly used for routine blood tests that require serum. The Red Top tubes contain a Clot Activator that helps the blood clot, allowing the serum to be separated from the blood cells. Some tests associated with red tubes include:
Blue Tubes
Blue tubes contain Sodium Citrate, which is used as an Anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting. These tubes are typically used for coagulation studies to evaluate how well blood is clotting. Some tests associated with blue tubes include:
Green Tubes
Green tubes contain Heparin, which is also an anticoagulant. These tubes are used for various tests, including chemistry tests and some Toxicology tests. Some tests associated with green tubes include:
Purple Tubes
Purple tubes contain the Anticoagulant EDTA, which helps preserve the blood cells for analysis. These tubes are typically used for hematology tests. Some tests associated with purple tubes include:
Gray Tubes
Gray tubes contain a Potassium Oxalate/Sodium Fluoride additive, which helps preserve glucose levels in the blood sample. These tubes are commonly used for glucose and alcohol testing. Some tests associated with gray tubes include:
Conclusion
Understanding the different phlebotomy tube colors and their associated tests is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results. By correctly identifying and using the appropriate tubes for specific tests, Healthcare Providers can effectively diagnose and monitor patients' health conditions. Proper handling and processing of blood samples from different colored tubes can lead to improved patient outcomes and quality of care.
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