Citrate Blood Collection Tube: Uses, Composition, and Clinical Applications
Summary
- A citrate blood collection tube is a specialized tube used in phlebotomy to collect blood samples for coagulation testing.
- These tubes contain Sodium Citrate, which acts as an Anticoagulant by binding to calcium ions in the blood, preventing clotting.
- Citrate tubes are typically light blue in color and are used for tests such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time).
Introduction
Phlebotomy is the process of collecting blood samples from patients for diagnostic testing. One of the key components of phlebotomy is using the right type of blood collection tube for specific tests. Citrate blood collection tubes are commonly used in phlebotomy for coagulation testing. In this article, we will explore what a citrate blood collection tube is, how it works, and when it is used in clinical practice.
What is a Citrate Blood Collection Tube?
A citrate blood collection tube is a specialized tube used to collect blood samples for coagulation testing. These tubes contain Sodium Citrate, an Anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting by binding to calcium ions in the blood. This allows the blood sample to remain in a liquid state for coagulation testing.
Composition of Citrate Blood Collection Tubes
Citrate blood collection tubes are typically light blue in color, making them easily distinguishable from other types of blood collection tubes. The tubes contain a predetermined amount of Sodium Citrate, usually at a concentration of 3.2% or 3.8%. The citrate acts as an Anticoagulant by binding to calcium ions in the blood, inhibiting the coagulation cascade.
How Do Citrate Blood Collection Tubes Work?
When blood is collected into a citrate tube, the Sodium Citrate binds to calcium ions in the blood, forming calcium citrate complexes. These complexes prevent the activation of clotting factors in the blood, allowing the sample to remain in a liquid state for coagulation testing. Citrate tubes are especially useful for tests that measure Clotting Time, such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time).
When Are Citrate Blood Collection Tubes Used?
Citrate blood collection tubes are primarily used for coagulation testing in clinical laboratories. These tubes are commonly used for tests that evaluate a patient's clotting ability, such as:
- Prothrombin Time (PT): PT is a test that measures how long it takes for a blood clot to form. It is used to assess the extrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade and is often used to monitor patients taking Anticoagulant medications.
- Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT): APTT is a test that evaluates the intrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade. It is used to assess the overall clotting function of a patient's blood.
- Clotting Factor Assays: Citrate tubes can also be used to measure the levels of specific clotting factors in the blood, such as factor VIII or factor IX. These tests are used to diagnose bleeding disorders and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
Conclusion
Citrate blood collection tubes are an essential tool in phlebotomy for collecting blood samples for coagulation testing. These tubes contain an anticoagulant, Sodium Citrate, which binds to calcium ions in the blood, preventing clotting and allowing for accurate coagulation testing. Understanding when and how to use citrate tubes is crucial for obtaining reliable Test Results in clinical practice.
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