Anticoagulant of Choice: Sodium Heparin in Light Green Top Tubes

Summary

  • Light Green Top blood collection tubes are typically used for the collection of plasma for coagulation testing.
  • The Anticoagulant most commonly used in Light Green Top tubes is sodium Heparin.
  • Sodium Heparin prevents blood from clotting by inhibiting the action of thrombin and other clotting factors.

Introduction

When it comes to collecting blood samples for clinical laboratory testing, different color-coded tubes are used to indicate the type of additive present in the tube. One commonly used tube for coagulation testing is the Light Green Top tube. In this article, we will explore the type of Anticoagulant typically used in Light Green Top tubes in the United States.

Light Green Top Blood Collection Tubes

Light Green Top blood collection tubes, also known as plasma separator tubes (PST), are used for the collection of plasma for coagulation testing. These tubes contain an Anticoagulant to prevent the blood from clotting so that plasma can be isolated for testing. The most common Anticoagulant used in Light Green Top tubes is sodium Heparin.

Sodium Heparin

Sodium Heparin is a form of Heparin, a natural substance that prevents blood from clotting by inhibiting the action of thrombin and other clotting factors. It acts by enhancing the activity of antithrombin III, a natural inhibitor of thrombin. This makes it an effective Anticoagulant for coagulation testing, as it prevents the blood from clotting during the collection process.

Benefits of Sodium Heparin

There are several benefits to using sodium Heparin as the Anticoagulant in Light Green Top tubes for coagulation testing:

  1. It is effective at preventing blood from clotting, allowing for accurate testing of plasma.
  2. It is relatively easy to handle and is stable at room temperature, making it convenient for laboratory use.
  3. It is readily available and cost-effective, making it a popular choice for blood collection tubes.

Precautions with Sodium Heparin

While sodium Heparin is a commonly used Anticoagulant in Light Green Top tubes, there are some precautions that should be taken when using it:

  1. Excessive mixing of the tube can cause hemolysis, which can affect Test Results.
  2. Incorrect volumes of sodium Heparin can lead to inaccurate Test Results, so it is important to follow proper blood collection procedures.
  3. Some tests may be affected by the presence of sodium Heparin in the sample, so it is important to consult with laboratory guidelines for proper handling of samples.

Conclusion

Light Green Top blood collection tubes are commonly used for coagulation testing in the United States. The Anticoagulant typically used in these tubes is sodium Heparin, which effectively prevents blood from clotting during the collection process. By understanding the properties and benefits of sodium Heparin, Healthcare Providers and laboratory professionals can ensure accurate and reliable Test Results for coagulation testing.

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