Yellow Top Blood Collection Tubes: Laboratory Tests and Uses in Healthcare Settings

Written By Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Summary

  • Yellow top blood collection tubes are commonly used in healthcare settings for a variety of laboratory tests.
  • These tubes contain a gel separator that separates blood cells from serum, making it ideal for tests that require serum samples.
  • Some of the specific laboratory tests that are typically performed using a yellow top blood collection tube include liver function tests, lipid panels, and glucose tests.

Introduction

In the United States, healthcare professionals rely on a wide range of laboratory tests to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions. Blood collection tubes are a crucial component of these tests, as they allow for the safe and efficient collection of blood samples for analysis. One common type of blood collection tube is the yellow top tube, which is used for specific laboratory tests that require serum samples. In this article, we will explore the various laboratory tests that are typically performed using a yellow top blood collection tube in the United States.

Liver Function Tests

One of the most common uses of a yellow top blood collection tube is for liver function tests. These tests are used to assess the health of the liver and to diagnose liver-related disorders. Some of the specific tests that are typically included in a liver function panel and performed using a yellow top tube include:

  1. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) - This enzyme is found in high levels in the liver, and elevated levels may indicate liver damage.
  2. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) - Another enzyme found in the liver that can indicate liver damage when elevated.
  3. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) - This enzyme is found in many tissues throughout the body, with elevated levels often seen in liver and bone disorders.
  4. Total protein and albumin - These tests measure the total amount of protein and albumin in the blood, which can provide information about the liver's ability to produce proteins.
  5. Bilirubin - This test measures the levels of bilirubin in the blood, which can indicate liver function and the presence of liver disease.

Lipid Panels

Another common use of a yellow top blood collection tube is for lipid panels, which are used to assess a person's risk of heart disease and stroke by measuring cholesterol levels in the blood. A lipid panel typically includes the following tests:

  1. Total cholesterol - This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, including both HDL (good) and LDL (bad) cholesterol.
  2. HDL cholesterol - High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries.
  3. LDL cholesterol - Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.
  4. Triglycerides - This test measures the amount of triglycerides, a type of fat, in the blood. High levels can increase the risk of heart disease.

Glucose Tests

Yellow top blood collection tubes are also commonly used for glucose tests, which are used to measure the amount of glucose in the blood. These tests are important for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes and other conditions that affect blood sugar levels. Some of the specific tests that are typically performed using a yellow top tube for glucose testing include:

  1. Fasting blood sugar - This test measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast and is used to diagnose diabetes and monitor treatment.
  2. Glucose tolerance test - This test measures blood sugar levels before and after drinking a sugary solution, and is used to diagnose gestational diabetes and other conditions.
  3. Hemoglobin A1c - This test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, and is used to monitor long-term blood sugar control in people with diabetes.

Conclusion

Yellow top blood collection tubes are a crucial tool in the healthcare industry, allowing for the safe and efficient collection of blood samples for laboratory testing. These tubes are particularly useful for tests that require serum samples, such as liver function tests, lipid panels, and glucose tests. By understanding the specific laboratory tests that are typically performed using a yellow top blood collection tube, healthcare professionals can ensure accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.

a-female-phlebotomist-patiently-serves-her-patient

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

Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Emily Carter is a certified phlebotomist with over 8 years of experience working in clinical laboratories and outpatient care facilities. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Pittsburgh, Emily became passionate about promoting best practices in phlebotomy techniques and patient safety. She has contributed to various healthcare blogs and instructional guides, focusing on the nuances of blood collection procedures, equipment selection, and safety standards.

When she's not writing, Emily enjoys mentoring new phlebotomists, helping them develop their skills through hands-on workshops and certifications. Her goal is to empower medical professionals and patients alike with accurate, up-to-date information about phlebotomy practices.

Previous

The Rise of Mobile Phlebotomy Services in the United States: Certifications and Regulations to Consider

Next

Volunteering as a Phlebotomist: Training, Certification, and Opportunities in the US