Understanding the Common Blood Collection Tube Colors Used in Medical Labs for Phlebotomy Procedures in the United States
Summary
- Understanding the common blood collection tube colors used in medical labs is essential for phlebotomy procedures in the United States
- Each color tube is designated for specific tests to ensure accurate results and patient safety
- Proper knowledge of tube colors and their associated tests is vital for healthcare professionals in clinical settings
Introduction
When it comes to collecting blood samples for diagnostic testing, healthcare professionals rely on a standardized system of blood collection tubes to ensure accurate results and patient safety. These tubes come in various colors, each representing a different additive or Anticoagulant to suit specific laboratory tests. In this article, we will explore the common blood collection tube colors used in medical labs for phlebotomy procedures in the United States and the specific tests associated with each color.
Common Blood Collection Tube Colors
Below are the most common blood collection tube colors used in clinical settings:
1. Red
- Test: Serum chemistry tests
- Special Considerations: Allow the blood to clot before centrifugation to obtain clear serum for testing
2. Light Blue
- Test: Coagulation tests (PT/INR, PTT)
- Special Considerations: Contains Sodium Citrate as an anticoagulant
3. Lavender
- Test: Complete blood count (CBC), blood typing, and crossmatching
- Special Considerations: Contains EDTA as an anticoagulant
4. Green
- Test: Plasma chemistry tests, STAT chemistry tests
- Special Considerations: Contains Heparin as an anticoagulant
5. Gray
- Test: Glucose levels, lactate levels, alcohol levels, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
- Special Considerations: Contains Sodium Fluoride as a preservative and Potassium Oxalate as an anticoagulant
Specific Tests Associated with Each Color
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the specific tests associated with each blood collection tube color:
Red Tube
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Lipid Panel
Light Blue Tube
- Prothrombin Time (PT)
- Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT)
- Fibrinogen levels
- Coagulation Factor Assays
Lavender Tube
- White Blood Cell (WBC) Count
- Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count
- Platelet Count
- Hemoglobin and Hematocrit levels
Green Tube
- Electrolyte Panel (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride)
- Liver Enzymes (AST, ALT)
- Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
- Creatinine levels
Gray Tube
- Glucose levels
- Lactate levels
- Alcohol levels
- Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) testing
Conclusion
Understanding the common blood collection tube colors used in medical labs and their associated tests is crucial for healthcare professionals performing phlebotomy procedures. By following the standardized color-coding system, Healthcare Providers can ensure that the right tests are ordered and accurate results are obtained for proper patient diagnosis and treatment.
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