The Importance of Dark Green Test Tube Handling and Processing in Medical Labs

Written By Jessica Turner, BS, CPT

Summary

  • A dark green test tube indicates the presence of Heparin as an Anticoagulant in the specimen collection process.
  • This type of test tube is commonly used in clinical labs and hospitals for chemistry and blood gas testing.
  • The proper handling and processing of specimens in dark green tubes are crucial for accurate Test Results and patient care.

Introduction

Specimen collection and processing are crucial steps in the medical laboratory and phlebotomy field. The type of test tube used for collecting blood samples can provide valuable information about the specific tests being performed and the additives present in the tube. One common type of test tube used in clinical labs and hospitals is the dark green tube, which indicates the presence of Heparin as an anticoagulant. In this article, we will explore what a dark green test tube indicates in terms of specimen collection and processing in the medical lab and phlebotomy field in the United States.

What is a dark green test tube?

A dark green test tube is a type of blood collection tube that contains Heparin as an anticoagulant. Heparin is a substance that prevents blood from clotting, allowing for the collection of a liquid blood sample for testing. The dark green color of the tube is used to differentiate it from other types of tubes that may contain different additives or are used for different types of tests.

Uses of dark green test tubes

  1. Dark green test tubes are commonly used for chemistry testing, including tests such as electrolytes, glucose, and kidney function tests.
  2. They are also used for blood gas testing, which measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
  3. In some cases, dark green tubes may also be used for other specialized tests, depending on the requirements of the specific test being performed.

Specimen collection and processing

Proper specimen collection and processing are essential for accurate Test Results and patient care. When using a dark green test tube, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the integrity of the specimen and the accuracy of the Test Results.

Specimen collection process

  1. Before collecting a blood sample, ensure that the patient's identification information is correct and matches the information on the test requisition form.
  2. Select the appropriate vein for Venipuncture, and clean the site with an alcohol swab to prevent contamination of the sample.
  3. Collect the blood sample using a vacuum tube system or a syringe, and immediately transfer the sample to the dark green test tube.
  4. Gently invert the tube several times to mix the blood with the Heparin Anticoagulant and prevent clotting.
  5. Label the test tube with the patient's name, date, time of collection, and any other required information.

Specimen processing

  1. After collection, transport the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible to prevent any changes in the sample that could affect Test Results.
  2. Upon arrival at the laboratory, ensure that the specimen is properly stored and handled according to the specific test requirements.
  3. Centrifuge the dark green test tube to separate the blood components, and carefully transfer the plasma or serum to a separate tube for testing.
  4. Ensure that the specimen is properly labeled and matched with the corresponding test requisition form before processing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a dark green test tube indicates the presence of Heparin as an Anticoagulant in the specimen collection process. This type of test tube is commonly used in clinical labs and hospitals for chemistry and blood gas testing. The proper handling and processing of specimens in dark green tubes are crucial for accurate Test Results and patient care. By following specific guidelines for specimen collection and processing, healthcare professionals can ensure the integrity of the sample and the reliability of the Test Results for patient diagnosis and treatment.

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Jessica Turner, BS, CPT

Jessica Turner is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of California, Los Angeles. With 6 years of experience in both hospital and private practice settings, Jessica has developed a deep understanding of phlebotomy techniques, patient interaction, and the importance of precision in blood collection.

She is passionate about educating others on the critical role phlebotomists play in the healthcare system and regularly writes content focused on blood collection best practices, troubleshooting common issues, and understanding the latest trends in phlebotomy equipment. Jessica aims to share practical insights and tips to help phlebotomists enhance their skills and improve patient care.

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