Common Uses of Lavender Top Blood Collection Tubes in Medical Labs in the United States: Complete Blood Count (CBC), Blood Typing, and Sickle Cell Screening

Summary

• Lavender Top blood collection tubes are commonly used in medical labs in the United States for a variety of tests
• These tubes contain an Anticoagulant called EDTA, which helps preserve the blood sample for testing
• Common tests performed using Lavender Top tubes include complete blood count (CBC), blood typing, and sickle cell screening

Introduction

Medical laboratories play a crucial role in healthcare by providing accurate and timely Test Results that help doctors diagnose and treat patients. One of the most commonly used types of blood collection tubes in these labs is the Lavender Top tube. In this article, we will explore the various tests that are commonly performed using a Lavender Top blood collection tube in a medical lab in the United States.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

One of the most common tests performed using a Lavender Top blood collection tube is a complete blood count, or CBC. This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a sample of blood. It can help doctors diagnose a variety of conditions, including anemia, infection, and leukemia.

Procedure

1. A phlebotomist will collect a sample of blood from the patient using a Lavender Top tube
2. The tube is then sent to the lab, where the blood is mixed with the EDTA Anticoagulant to prevent clotting
3. The lab technician will use a machine called a hematology analyzer to count the different types of blood cells in the sample
4. The results are then sent to the doctor, who can use them to diagnose and treat the patient

Blood Typing

Another common test that is performed using a Lavender Top blood collection tube is blood typing. This test determines a person's blood type, which is important for blood transfusions and organ transplants. There are four main blood types: A, B, AB, and O, each of which can be positive or negative.

Procedure

1. A blood sample is collected from the patient using a Lavender Top tube
2. The sample is mixed with antibodies that react with the different blood types
3. The lab technician will observe the sample for agglutination, or clumping, which indicates a positive result
4. Blood typing can also be done using a different type of tube called a pink top tube, which contains a different anticoagulant

Sickle Cell Screening

Sickle cell screening is another test that is commonly performed using a Lavender Top blood collection tube. This test is used to detect the presence of sickle hemoglobin, a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped. Sickle cell disease can cause pain, organ damage, and other serious complications.

Procedure

1. A blood sample is collected from the patient using a Lavender Top tube
2. The lab technician will mix the sample with a reagent that causes sickle cells to sickle, or change shape
3. If sickle cells are present, the sample will appear cloudy or show abnormal cell shapes under a microscope
4. Sickle cell screening is often performed on newborns as part of routine screening programs

Conclusion

Lavender Top blood collection tubes are an essential tool in medical labs in the United States, allowing for the performance of a variety of important tests. From complete blood counts to blood typing and sickle cell screening, these tubes help doctors diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. By understanding the various tests that can be performed using Lavender Top tubes, healthcare professionals can provide better care for their patients.

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