Yellow ACD Tubes: Preserving Whole Blood Samples for Flow Cytometry Testing and More

Summary

  • Yellow ACD tubes are commonly used to preserve whole blood samples for flow cytometry testing.
  • These tubes contain an Anticoagulant solution that prevents blood clotting and maintains the integrity of the sample.
  • Phlebotomists must follow specific procedures for collecting blood samples into yellow ACD tubes to ensure accurate Test Results.

Introduction

Medical laboratories play a critical role in healthcare by providing accurate and timely diagnostic information to Healthcare Providers. Phlebotomy, the process of collecting blood samples from patients, is an essential step in laboratory testing. Yellow ACD (acid citrate dextrose) tubes are commonly used in phlebotomy procedures to preserve whole blood samples for specific laboratory tests. In this article, we will explore the specific uses of yellow ACD tubes in the context of phlebotomy procedures in medical laboratories in the United States.

What is a Yellow ACD Tube?

A yellow ACD tube is a type of blood collection tube that contains an Anticoagulant solution called acid citrate dextrose. This solution prevents blood clotting by binding to calcium ions, which are essential for the coagulation cascade. Yellow ACD tubes are commonly used to preserve whole blood samples for certain laboratory tests that require live cell analysis, such as flow cytometry. These tubes are distinguished by their yellow color cap, which indicates the presence of the Anticoagulant solution.

Specific Uses of Yellow ACD Tubes

Flow Cytometry Testing

One of the primary uses of yellow ACD tubes is for preserving whole blood samples for flow cytometry testing. Flow cytometry is a technique that analyzes the physical and chemical characteristics of cells, including cell size, granularity, and protein expression. This specialized laboratory test is used in a variety of clinical applications, such as immunophenotyping of blood cells, diagnosing certain types of leukemia and lymphoma, and monitoring HIV disease progression.

Other Applications

Yellow ACD tubes may also be used for preserving whole blood samples for other laboratory tests that require live cell analysis, such as certain types of Genetic Testing and cell culture studies. The Anticoagulant solution in the tube helps maintain the viability and integrity of the blood sample, ensuring accurate Test Results.

Phlebotomy Procedures with Yellow ACD Tubes

When collecting blood samples into yellow ACD tubes, phlebotomists must follow specific procedures to ensure the integrity of the sample and accurate Test Results. Here are some key steps involved in phlebotomy procedures with yellow ACD tubes:

  1. Verify the patient's identity and confirm the test orders in the laboratory requisition form.
  2. Select the appropriate size yellow ACD tube based on the volume of blood to be collected.
  3. Clean the Venipuncture site with an antiseptic solution and allow it to dry thoroughly.
  4. Perform the Venipuncture using a sterile needle and syringe or vacuum tube system.
  5. Fill the yellow ACD tube with the required volume of whole blood, following the manufacturer's instructions.
  6. Gently invert the tube several times to ensure thorough mixing of the blood with the Anticoagulant solution.
  7. Label the tube with the patient's name, date, and time of collection, and any other required information.
  8. Transport the tube to the laboratory for processing according to the laboratory's protocols.

Conclusion

Yellow ACD tubes play a crucial role in preserving whole blood samples for specific laboratory tests that require live cell analysis, such as flow cytometry. Phlebotomists must adhere to specific procedures when collecting blood samples into yellow ACD tubes to ensure accurate Test Results. By following proper phlebotomy techniques and handling protocols, healthcare professionals can ensure the integrity of blood samples and contribute to high-quality laboratory testing in the United States.

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