Exploring the Role of Yellow Top Tubes in Medical Laboratory Testing

Summary

• Yellow top tubes are commonly used in medical laboratories for collecting blood for specific types of tests.
• These tubes usually contain an Anticoagulant known as ACD, which helps preserve the blood sample for further analysis.
• Some of the blood tests typically collected using a yellow top tube include HLA testing, paternity testing, and DNA testing.

Introduction

When you visit a medical laboratory for blood tests, you may notice that different colored tubes are used to collect blood samples. Each tube color indicates a specific additive or Anticoagulant designed for a particular type of test. One of the commonly used tubes in the United States is the yellow top tube, which is typically used for specific blood tests. In this article, we will explore what type of blood test is typically collected using a yellow top tube in a medical laboratory setting in the United States.

Yellow Top Tube and Anticoagulant

The yellow top tube, also known as an ACD tube, contains an Anticoagulant called Acid-Citrate-Dextrose (ACD). This Anticoagulant is used to prevent blood coagulation and allows the blood sample to remain in a liquid state for further analysis in the laboratory. ACD helps preserve the blood sample by preventing clot formation, which can interfere with the Test Results.

Uses of Yellow Top Tube

Yellow top tubes are primarily used for collecting blood samples for tests that require the preservation of DNA and RNA. Some of the common tests that are typically collected using a yellow top tube include:

1. HLA Testing: Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) testing is performed to determine tissue compatibility for organ transplantation and to diagnose Autoimmune Diseases. Yellow top tubes are used to collect blood samples for HLA testing as they preserve the DNA for analysis.
2. Paternity Testing: Paternity testing involves comparing the DNA of the alleged father, mother, and child to determine biological relationships. Yellow top tubes are used to collect blood samples for paternity testing as they preserve the DNA for accurate analysis.
3. DNA Testing: DNA testing is performed for various purposes, including Genetic Testing, ancestry testing, and identification. Yellow top tubes are used to collect blood samples for DNA testing as they preserve the genetic material for reliable results.

Collection Procedure

When a healthcare provider collects a blood sample using a yellow top tube, they follow a specific procedure to ensure the integrity of the sample. The steps involved in collecting blood using a yellow top tube typically include:

1. Verify patient identity and test requisition.
2. Prepare the yellow top tube by inspecting it for any defects or contamination.
3. Select the appropriate vein for Venipuncture and clean the site with an antiseptic solution.
4. Perform the Venipuncture and collect the required amount of blood into the yellow top tube.
5. Ensure that the tube is properly labeled with patient information and test details.
6. Invert the tube gently to mix the blood with the Anticoagulant and prevent clotting.
7. Store the tube at the recommended temperature until it is transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Transport and Processing

After the blood sample is collected in the yellow top tube, it is transported to the laboratory for processing and analysis. The transportation of the sample must adhere to specific guidelines to maintain the integrity of the blood sample. Once the sample reaches the laboratory, it undergoes a series of steps for processing and testing:

1. The tube is centrifuged to separate the blood components, such as plasma and cells.
2. The plasma or DNA is extracted from the blood sample for further analysis.
3. The extracted DNA is analyzed using various techniques to obtain the required information for the specific test.
4. The Test Results are generated and reported to the healthcare provider for interpretation and further action.
5. The remaining blood sample may be stored for future testing or disposed of following Proper Disposal protocols.

Conclusion

Yellow top tubes are essential components in medical laboratory settings for collecting blood samples for specific tests that require DNA preservation. The use of ACD as an Anticoagulant in yellow top tubes helps maintain the integrity of the blood sample for accurate analysis. Understanding the types of tests typically collected using a yellow top tube and the proper collection and processing procedures is crucial for obtaining reliable Test Results. Whether it is HLA testing, paternity testing, or DNA testing, the yellow top tube plays a vital role in ensuring the success of these Diagnostic Tests.

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