The Recommended Use of a Light Green Tube in Medical Labs in the United States
Summary
- The light green tube, also known as a Heparin tube, is recommended for collecting blood samples for various tests in a medical lab or phlebotomy setting in the United States.
- It contains lithium Heparin, which prevents blood from clotting by inhibiting the action of thrombin and other clotting factors, making it suitable for tests that require plasma rather than serum.
- Common tests that use a light green tube include electrolyte panels, liver function tests, and arterial blood gas analysis, among others.
Introduction
In the medical field, the use of different color-coded tubes is essential for collecting blood samples accurately and ensuring proper testing procedures. One such tube that is commonly used in medical labs and phlebotomy settings is the light green tube, also known as a Heparin tube. This article will explore the recommended use of a light green tube in a medical lab or phlebotomy setting in the United States.
What is a Light Green Tube?
A light green tube is a vacuum-sealed glass or plastic tube that contains a specific additive to prevent blood from clotting. The additive used in a light green tube is lithium Heparin, which works by inhibiting the action of thrombin and other clotting factors in the blood. This tube is typically used for tests that require plasma, as opposed to serum, for analysis.
Key Points:
- Contains lithium Heparin to prevent blood clotting
- Recommended for tests that require plasma
Recommended Use of a Light Green Tube
The light green tube is recommended for a variety of tests that require plasma rather than serum for accurate results. Some of the common tests that use a light green tube include:
Electrolyte Panels
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Chloride
Liver Function Tests
- AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
- Alkaline Phosphatase
Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
- pH
- Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2)
- Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2)
Overall, the light green tube is recommended for tests that require plasma and where the prevention of blood clotting is necessary for accurate results. It is important to follow proper phlebotomy procedures when collecting blood samples in a light green tube to ensure the integrity of the sample and the accuracy of Test Results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recommended use of a light green tube in a medical lab or phlebotomy setting in the United States is for tests that require plasma rather than serum for analysis. The tube contains lithium Heparin, which prevents blood from clotting and ensures accurate Test Results. By following proper phlebotomy procedures and using the light green tube for specific tests, Healthcare Providers can ensure the quality and accuracy of laboratory testing.
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