Understanding the Different Types of Phlebotomy Tubes and Their Corresponding Additives in Medical Laboratories

Summary

• Phlebotomy tubes are essential tools used in medical laboratories for blood collection and testing.
• There are various types of phlebotomy tubes with different additives that serve specific purposes in laboratory testing.
• Understanding the different types of phlebotomy tubes and their corresponding additives is crucial for accurate and reliable Test Results in healthcare settings.

Introduction

When it comes to medical laboratories in the United States, phlebotomy tubes are essential tools for blood collection and testing. These tubes play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable Test Results, helping Healthcare Providers diagnose, treat, and monitor various medical conditions. In this article, we will explore the different types of phlebotomy tubes and their corresponding additives used in medical laboratories across the country.

Types of Phlebotomy Tubes

1. Serum Tubes

1. SST (Serum Separator Tube): Contains a gel that separates serum from blood cells after centrifugation.
2. Red Top Tube: Contains no additives, used for serum and chemistry tests.
3. Gold Top Tube: Contains a gel separator and Clot Activator, used for chemistry tests.

2. Plasma Tubes

1. Green Top Tube: Contains Heparin as an anticoagulant, used for plasma tests.
2. Lavender Top Tube: Contains EDTA as an anticoagulant, used for whole blood hematology tests.
3. Blue Top Tube: Contains Sodium Citrate as an anticoagulant, used for coagulation tests.

3. Specialty Tubes

1. Gray Top Tube: Contains Sodium Fluoride and Potassium Oxalate, used for glucose testing.
2. Pink Top Tube: Contains EDTA and a proprietary mixture, used for blood banking tests.
3. Orange Top Tube: Contains thrombin, used for rapid serum testing.

Corresponding Additives

Each type of phlebotomy tube is designed to serve a specific purpose in laboratory testing, thanks to the additives they contain. These additives help preserve the integrity of the blood sample and ensure accurate results. Here are some common additives used in phlebotomy tubes:

1. Anticoagulants

1. Heparin: Prevents blood clotting by inhibiting thrombin and factor Xa.
2. EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid): Binds calcium ions to prevent blood clotting.
3. Sodium Citrate: Binds calcium ions to prevent blood clotting and is used for coagulation tests.

2. Clot Activators

1. Thrombin: Promotes clotting by converting fibrinogen to fibrin.
2. Calcium: Essential for the blood coagulation cascade to form a stable clot.

3. Separation Gels

1. Silica Particles: Help separate serum or plasma from blood cells during centrifugation.

Conclusion

Phlebotomy tubes and their corresponding additives are crucial components of laboratory testing in healthcare settings. Understanding the different types of phlebotomy tubes and their additives is essential for ensuring accurate and reliable Test Results. By utilizing the right phlebotomy tubes with the appropriate additives, Healthcare Providers can deliver quality patient care and make informed clinical decisions based on laboratory Test Results.

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