Preservation of Blood Samples with Lavender Blood Tubes in Phlebotomy

Summary

  • Lavender blood tubes are commonly used in phlebotomy procedures in the United States
  • The additive present in lavender blood tubes is EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)
  • EDTA helps preserve blood samples by binding to calcium ions and preventing coagulation

Introduction

When it comes to phlebotomy procedures, healthcare professionals rely on various types of blood collection tubes to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results. One common type of blood tube used for Venipuncture is the lavender blood tube. In this article, we will explore the specific additive present in lavender blood tubes used in the United States and its role in preserving blood samples for clinical lab testing.

Lavender Blood Tubes in Phlebotomy

Lavender blood tubes are easily identifiable in the healthcare setting due to their distinctive purple color cap. These tubes are primarily used for collecting whole blood samples for hematology tests, such as complete blood counts (CBC) and Blood Smears. The lavender color of the tube indicates the specific additive present inside, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the blood sample until it reaches the clinical lab.

EDTA as the Additive

The additive present in lavender blood tubes used for phlebotomy in the United States is Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, commonly known as EDTA. EDTA is a chelating agent that binds to calcium ions in the blood, preventing coagulation and maintaining the blood sample in its liquid form during transportation and processing. This ensures that the blood sample remains viable for various hematological tests that require whole blood specimens.

Preservation of Blood Samples

EDTA plays a crucial role in preserving blood samples for accurate testing in clinical laboratories. By chelating calcium ions, EDTA prevents the activation of the coagulation cascade and the formation of blood clots within the tube. This allows the blood sample to remain stable and suitable for analysis, even after prolonged storage or transportation to the lab. Additionally, EDTA helps maintain the integrity of cell morphology, making it easier for laboratory technicians to perform accurate differential white blood cell counts and other hematology tests.

Benefits of Lavender Blood Tubes with EDTA

Using lavender blood tubes with EDTA as the additive offers several advantages in the phlebotomy and laboratory testing process. Some of the key benefits include:

  1. Prevention of blood clotting: EDTA helps maintain the liquid state of the blood sample by preventing clot formation, ensuring reliable Test Results.
  2. Improved sample stability: The chelating properties of EDTA ensure that the blood sample remains stable and viable for testing over an extended period.
  3. Enhanced accuracy of Test Results: By preserving cell morphology and preventing clotting, lavender tubes with EDTA help improve the accuracy of hematology tests.
  4. Standardization of sample collection: The use of lavender blood tubes with EDTA allows for consistent and standardized blood collection practices across healthcare facilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the additive present in lavender blood tubes used for phlebotomy in the United States is Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). EDTA plays a vital role in preserving blood samples for hematology testing by preventing coagulation and maintaining the stability of the blood sample. Healthcare professionals rely on lavender tubes with EDTA to ensure accurate and reliable Test Results in clinical labs. Understanding the importance of this additive can help improve the quality of patient care and diagnostic testing in hospitals and home healthcare settings.

a-gloved-hand-holding-four-purple-top-blood-collection-tubes-with-blood-specimen

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

Previous
Previous

The Importance of Clia Lab Certification for Phlebotomists in the United States

Next
Next

Effective Strategies for Handling Patient Anxiety During Blood Sample Collection: Insights for Phlebotomists