Green Top Lab Tubes: Anticoagulant and Uses in Blood Collection
Summary
- Green top lab tubes are typically used for blood collection in the United States.
- The Anticoagulant found in a green top lab tube is Heparin, specifically lithium Heparin.
- Green top tubes are commonly used for chemistry tests to measure electrolytes, renal function, and other blood chemistries.
Introduction
In the United States, healthcare professionals use a variety of lab tubes for blood collection. One common type of lab tube with a green stopper is typically used for specific types of tests. In this article, we will explore what type of Anticoagulant is found in green top lab tubes used for blood collection in the United States.
What is a Green Top Lab Tube?
Green top lab tubes are specifically designed for blood collection for certain types of tests. These tubes contain an Anticoagulant that helps to preserve the blood sample and prevent it from clotting. The most common Anticoagulant found in green top lab tubes is Heparin, specifically lithium Heparin.
Anticoagulant in Green Top Tubes
Heparin is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to prevent blood clotting. In green top lab tubes, Heparin is often combined with lithium to create lithium Heparin. This Anticoagulant works by inhibiting the clotting process, allowing the blood sample to remain in a liquid state.
Uses of Green Top Tubes
Green top tubes are commonly used for chemistry tests that measure various components of the blood. These tests include electrolyte levels, liver function tests, renal function tests, and other blood chemistries. The use of lithium Heparin in these tubes ensures that the blood sample remains stable and can be accurately analyzed for these tests.
Collection and Handling of Green Top Tubes
When collecting blood samples in green top tubes, it is important to follow proper procedures to ensure accurate results. Healthcare professionals must ensure that the tube is properly labeled with patient information, collected in the correct order of draw, and inverted several times to mix the blood with the anticoagulant. The tube should then be centrifuged to separate the plasma from the cells for testing.
Conclusion
Green top lab tubes with lithium Heparin are commonly used for blood collection for chemistry tests in the United States. The Anticoagulant helps to preserve the blood sample and prevent clotting, ensuring accurate Test Results. Healthcare professionals must follow proper procedures for collecting and handling these tubes to maintain the integrity of the blood sample and obtain reliable Test Results.
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