Understanding Additives in Different Colored Tubes for Blood Sampling: A Guide for Phlebotomists
Summary
- Additives in different colored tubes play a crucial role in preserving and processing blood samples for various lab tests.
- Each color tube contains different additives tailored to specific tests, ensuring accurate results.
- Understanding the type of additives in each tube is essential for phlebotomists to collect the right sample for testing.
When it comes to phlebotomy and laboratory testing, the tubes used to collect blood samples come in various colors, each representing a specific additive to aid in the preservation and processing of the sample. These additives are essential for ensuring accurate results and proper handling of the blood specimen. In the United States, different colored tubes are used for various types of lab tests, each containing specific additives tailored to the test being performed. Let's explore the types of additives found in the different colored tubes used in phlebotomy for various lab tests in the United States.
Red Tube (No additive)
The red tube is used for collecting blood samples for serum testing, such as chemistry panels, lipid profiles, and blood bank tests. This tube typically does not contain any additives, as it is primarily used for collecting clotted blood samples. Once the blood is drawn into the red tube, it is allowed to clot, and then the tube is centrifuged to separate the serum from the clot. The serum is then used for various tests that do not require anticoagulants or other additives.
Gold/Red Gray Tube (Clot Activator and gel separator)
The gold or red gray tube contains a Clot Activator and gel separator, making it ideal for collecting blood samples for chemistry tests. The Clot Activator promotes blood clotting, while the gel separator forms a barrier between the serum and the clot, allowing for easy separation during centrifugation. This tube is commonly used for tests like glucose, cholesterol, and liver function tests.
Light Blue Tube (Sodium Citrate)
The light blue tube contains Sodium Citrate, an Anticoagulant that binds calcium in the blood, preventing it from clotting. This tube is used for coagulation studies, such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time). The Sodium Citrate ensures that the blood remains in a liquid state for accurate testing of clotting factors.
Green Tube (Heparin)
The green tube contains Heparin, an Anticoagulant that inhibits the clotting process by enhancing the activity of antithrombin. This tube is commonly used for tests like plasma determinations, ammonia levels, and STAT chemistry tests. Heparin prevents the formation of clots while preserving the integrity of the blood sample for testing.
Lavender/Purple Tube (EDTA)
The lavender or purple tube contains EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), an Anticoagulant that binds calcium and other metal ions in the blood. This tube is used for hematology tests, such as CBC (complete blood count) and Blood Smears. EDTA helps maintain the integrity of the blood cells and prevents clotting during sample processing.
Gray Tube (Sodium Fluoride/Potassium Oxalate)
The gray tube contains a mixture of Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate, which act as anticoagulants and preservatives for glucose testing. Sodium Fluoride inhibits glycolysis, preventing the breakdown of glucose in the blood sample, while Potassium Oxalate acts as an anticoagulant. This tube is used for tests like glucose tolerance tests and blood alcohol levels.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of additives in the different colored tubes used in phlebotomy for various lab tests is essential for healthcare professionals to collect the right sample for testing. Each tube is designed with specific additives tailored to the tests being performed, ensuring accurate results and proper handling of the blood specimen. By following proper collection and handling procedures, Healthcare Providers can contribute to better patient outcomes and accurate diagnostic testing.
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