Yellow Top Tubes in Phlebotomy: Uses, Composition, and Procedures

Summary

• Yellow top tubes are used for specific laboratory tests in phlebotomy procedures in the United States.
• These tubes contain a gel separator to separate blood cells from serum or plasma.
• Yellow top tubes are commonly used for chemistry tests, immunology tests, and serology tests.

Introduction

Phlebotomy procedures are an essential part of healthcare, as they involve drawing blood samples for diagnostic testing. Different colored tubes are used for collecting blood samples based on the specific laboratory tests that need to be conducted. One such tube is the yellow top tube, which serves a specific purpose in phlebotomy procedures in the United States.

What are Yellow Top Tubes?

Yellow top tubes, also known as SST (serum separator tubes) tubes, contain a gel separator that separates blood cells from serum or plasma after the blood sample has been centrifuged. These tubes are commonly used for chemistry tests, immunology tests, and serology tests.

Composition of Yellow Top Tubes

Yellow top tubes typically consist of the following components:

1. Tube: The tube is made of transparent plastic and has a yellow stopper to indicate the type of tube.
2. Gel Separator: The gel separator is a substance located between the clot and the serum or plasma. It helps in separating the blood cells from the serum or plasma after centrifugation.
3. Anticoagulant: Some yellow top tubes may contain an anticoagulant, such as gel or liquid, to prevent blood from clotting.

Uses of Yellow Top Tubes

Yellow top tubes are primarily used for the following laboratory tests:

1. Chemistry Tests: These tubes are commonly used for tests such as glucose, cholesterol, liver function tests, and kidney function tests.
2. Immunology Tests: Yellow top tubes are used for tests that detect antibodies or immune response in the body.
3. Serology Tests: These tubes are used for tests that detect antibodies, antigens, or infectious agents in the blood.

Phlebotomy Procedures Using Yellow Top Tubes

When collecting blood samples using yellow top tubes, phlebotomists need to follow specific procedures to ensure the accuracy of the Test Results:

1. Identify the Patient: Verify the patient's identity using two unique identifiers, such as name and date of birth.
2. Prepare the Equipment: Gather the necessary equipment, including yellow top tubes, needles, alcohol swabs, and bandages.
3. Select the Vein: Choose the appropriate vein for Venipuncture, typically in the arm or hand.
4. Clean the Site: Disinfect the Venipuncture site with an alcohol swab to prevent contamination.
5. Insert the Needle: Insert the needle into the vein to draw the blood sample into the yellow top tube.
6. Invert the Tube: Gently invert the tube several times to mix the blood with the gel separator.
7. Label the Tube: Label the tube with the patient's information, date, and time of collection.
8. Transport the Sample: Place the tube in a biohazard bag and transport it to the laboratory for testing.

Advantages of Yellow Top Tubes

Yellow top tubes offer several advantages in phlebotomy procedures and laboratory testing:

1. Efficient Separation: The gel separator in yellow top tubes ensures efficient separation of blood cells from serum or plasma, leading to accurate Test Results.
2. Convenience: Using a single tube for multiple tests reduces the need for additional sample collection, saving time and resources.
3. Patient Comfort: The design of yellow top tubes minimizes the risk of hemolysis or clotting, resulting in a more comfortable experience for patients.

Conclusion

Yellow top tubes play a crucial role in phlebotomy procedures and laboratory testing in the United States. These tubes are specifically designed for chemistry, immunology, and serology tests, offering efficient separation of blood components and accurate Test Results. By following proper procedures and guidelines when using yellow top tubes, healthcare professionals can ensure the quality and reliability of diagnostic testing in clinical lab settings and hospitals.

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