Yellow Top Tubes: Essential Tools for Blood Sample Collection in Medical Labs

Written By Emily Carter , BS, CPT

Summary

  • Yellow top tubes are commonly used in medical labs for collecting blood samples
  • These tubes usually contain an additive called ACD, which helps prevent blood clotting
  • Blood samples collected in yellow top tubes are often used for testing blood cultures, DNA analysis, and other specialized tests

Introduction

When it comes to collecting blood samples for medical testing, different colored tubes are used to indicate the type of test being performed. One common type of blood test that is typically collected using a yellow top tube in medical labs and phlebotomy procedures in the United States is the Blood Culture test.

What is a Yellow Top Tube?

A yellow top tube, also known as an ACD tube, contains an Anticoagulant called acid-citrate-dextrose (ACD). This additive helps prevent blood clotting and allows for the preservation of blood samples for various laboratory tests.

Types of Blood Tests Using Yellow Top Tubes

There are several types of blood tests that are typically collected using yellow top tubes in medical labs and hospitals in the United States. Some of these include:

  1. Blood Culture Test: This test is used to detect the presence of bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream. It is often performed on patients who show symptoms of sepsis or other infections.
  2. DNA Analysis: Yellow top tubes may also be used for collecting blood samples for DNA analysis, such as paternity testing or Genetic Testing.
  3. Other Specialized Tests: In addition to blood cultures and DNA analysis, yellow top tubes are also commonly used for other specialized tests, such as cytokine testing or immunophenotyping.

Phlebotomy Procedures for Collecting Blood Samples in Yellow Top Tubes

Phlebotomy is the process of collecting blood samples from patients for diagnostic testing or other medical purposes. When collecting blood samples in yellow top tubes, phlebotomists follow specific procedures to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the samples. These procedures may include:

  1. Proper Identification: Before collecting blood samples, phlebotomists must verify the patient's identity and ensure that the correct tubes are used for the prescribed tests.
  2. Site Preparation: The phlebotomist will clean the collection site with an antiseptic solution to prevent contamination of the blood sample.
  3. Blood Collection: Using a sterile needle and syringe or a vacutainer system, the phlebotomist will collect the blood sample and transfer it into the yellow top tube, making sure to mix the sample with the ACD additive.
  4. Labeling and Transport: After collection, the yellow top tube is labeled with the patient's information and transported to the laboratory for processing and analysis.

Conclusion

Yellow top tubes are an essential tool in medical labs and hospitals for collecting blood samples for various Diagnostic Tests. By understanding the types of blood tests that are typically collected using yellow top tubes, as well as the phlebotomy procedures involved in collecting these samples, healthcare professionals can ensure the accurate and timely diagnosis of patients' conditions.

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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.

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