Yellow Top Tubes: Essential for Diagnostic Testing in Medical Labs

Summary

• Yellow top tubes are commonly used in medical labs for specific types of tests
• These tubes contain an additive that helps stabilize certain types of blood samples
• Phlebotomists follow specific procedures when collecting blood samples using yellow top tubes

Introduction

When you visit a medical lab for blood work, you may notice that different colored tubes are used to collect blood samples. Each color represents a specific type of tube that is used for different tests. One common color you may see is the yellow top tube, which is used for specific types of tests that require certain additives for accurate results. In this article, we will explore the types of tests that are typically performed using a yellow top tube in medical labs and the phlebotomy procedures involved in collecting blood samples for these tests in the United States.

Types of Tests Using a Yellow Top Tube

Yellow top tubes, also known as SST tubes (serum separator tubes), contain a gel separator and Clot Activator. This additive helps stabilize certain types of blood samples, particularly serum samples, which are required for a variety of Diagnostic Tests. The gel separator works by forming a barrier between the serum and the blood cells once the sample is centrifuged, allowing for easy extraction of the serum without contamination.

Some of the common tests that are typically performed using a yellow top tube include:

1. Basic metabolic panel (BMP) - This test measures various components in the blood, such as glucose, electrolytes, and kidney function markers.
2. Liver function tests (LFTs) - These tests are used to evaluate how well the liver is functioning by measuring enzymes and proteins in the blood.
3. Lipid panel - This test measures cholesterol levels in the blood, including HDL, LDL, and triglycerides.
4. Thyroid function tests - These tests measure hormone levels in the blood to assess thyroid function.
5. General chemistry tests - These tests may include various other chemistry panels to assess overall health and organ function.

Phlebotomy Procedures Using Yellow Top Tubes

Phlebotomists are trained healthcare professionals who are responsible for collecting blood samples from patients for diagnostic testing. When collecting blood samples using yellow top tubes, phlebotomists follow specific procedures to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the samples. Here are some common steps involved in phlebotomy procedures using yellow top tubes:

1. Patient Identification

Prior to collecting a blood sample, the phlebotomist must verify the patient's identity to ensure that the sample is correctly labeled and matched to the right patient. This step is crucial to prevent any errors in Sample Handling or reporting.

2. Preparation of Equipment

The phlebotomist gathers the necessary equipment, including the yellow top tube, needle, alcohol swab, and tourniquet. The tube is inverted several times to ensure proper mixing of the additive before the blood sample is collected.

3. Vein Selection and Blood Collection

The phlebotomist identifies a suitable vein for blood collection and applies a Tourniquet to help locate the vein. After cleaning the site with an alcohol swab, the phlebotomist inserts the needle into the vein and collects the blood sample directly into the yellow top tube. The tube is then gently inverted to mix the blood with the additive.

4. Post-Collection Procedures

Once the blood sample is collected, the phlebotomist carefully removes the needle and applies pressure to the site to stop any bleeding. The sample is then labeled with the patient's information and sent to the lab for testing. Proper documentation of the sample collection process is essential for accurate reporting and follow-up.

Conclusion

Yellow top tubes are an essential component of diagnostic testing in medical labs, as they are used for a variety of tests that require serum samples. Phlebotomists play a key role in collecting blood samples using yellow top tubes, following specific procedures to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the samples. By understanding the types of tests that are typically performed using a yellow top tube and the phlebotomy procedures involved in collecting blood samples, patients can have confidence in the accuracy of their diagnostic Test Results.

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