Proper Storage and Handling of Specimens in Lavender Top Tubes for Accurate Test Results
Summary
- Lavender Top tubes are commonly used for blood collection and storage in laboratory settings
- Specimens stored in Lavender Top tubes can typically be stored for up to 48 hours at room temperature
- Proper storage and handling of specimens in Lavender Top tubes is essential to ensure accurate Test Results
Lavender Top tubes, also known as EDTA tubes, are a common type of blood collection tube used in laboratory settings. These tubes contain an additive called ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), which helps to preserve the blood sample for testing. But how long can specimens be stored in Lavender Top tubes before they need to be tested?
Overview of Lavender Top Tubes
Lavender Top tubes are easily identifiable by their distinctive color, which helps to differentiate them from other types of blood collection tubes. These tubes are commonly used for collecting whole blood specimens for a variety of tests, including complete blood count (CBC), blood cultures, and coagulation studies. The EDTA additive in Lavender Top tubes helps to prevent blood clotting by binding to calcium ions, which are necessary for the coagulation process.
When a blood sample is collected in a Lavender Top tube, the tube must be inverted several times to ensure proper mixing of the blood with the EDTA additive. This helps to prevent clotting and ensure that the sample remains stable for testing.
Storage Recommendations
Specimens collected in Lavender Top tubes are typically stable for up to 48 hours when stored at room temperature. However, it is important to follow specific storage recommendations to ensure the integrity of the sample. Here are some key points to keep in mind when storing specimens in Lavender Top tubes:
- Store tubes upright to prevent leakage
- Avoid freezing specimens in Lavender Top tubes
- Protect tubes from light and heat
- Label tubes with patient information and collection date/time
- Transport tubes to the laboratory promptly
Failure to follow these storage recommendations can lead to inaccurate Test Results and compromised Specimen Integrity. It is important to handle and store specimens in Lavender Top tubes with care to ensure reliable test outcomes.
Factors Affecting Specimen Stability
Several factors can affect the stability of specimens stored in Lavender Top tubes. These factors include temperature fluctuations, exposure to light, and delays in transportation to the laboratory. Here are some common factors that can impact specimen stability:
Temperature
Specimens stored in Lavender Top tubes should be kept at room temperature to prevent alterations in cell morphology and other test parameters. Extreme temperatures can lead to hemolysis, which can affect the accuracy of Test Results.
Light Exposure
Lavender Top tubes should be protected from direct light exposure, as light can degrade certain analytes in the blood sample. It is important to store tubes in a dark area to prevent light-induced degradation of the specimen.
Transportation Delays
Specimens in Lavender Top tubes should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection to ensure sample stability. Prolonged transportation delays can lead to changes in test parameters and compromised Specimen Integrity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, specimens stored in Lavender Top tubes can typically be stored for up to 48 hours at room temperature. However, proper storage and handling of these specimens are essential to ensure accurate Test Results. By following storage recommendations and minimizing factors that can affect specimen stability, Healthcare Providers can maintain the integrity of blood samples collected in Lavender Top tubes and obtain reliable test outcomes.
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