Blood collection tubes, used to collect blood samples contain heparin which stabilizes the red blood cell membranes, are used for specialized hematology studies.
Whole blood is collected in blood collection tubes or syringes that contain the appropriate anticoagulant to inhibit coagulation. A blood collection tube containing EDTA, a chelating anticoagulant is required for routine hematology tests.
The evacuated tube system for blood collection in use for various laboratory tests consists of tubes of various sizes, with color-coded tops indicating tube contents.
Most blood collection tubes contain an additive that either accelerates clotting of the blood or prevents the blood from clotting.
Commonly used blood collection tubes:
There are seven commonly used blood collection tubes. These are the serum tube, coagulation tube, erythrocyte sedimentation rate tube, heparin tube, EDTA tube, Citrate Tube and sodium fluoride tube.
Colour Codes are Red, Purple, Yellow, Blue, Green, Black, Grey tubes.
All colors are available in Vacuumed and Non-Vacuumized tubes.
Many other types of blood collection tubes are available for an array of special tests. The PA is advised to consult the laboratory before collecting any blood test specimen that may require specialized collection procedures.
All variants and combinations of vacuum and non vacuum blood collection tubes are available anytime at www.microsidd.com
Blood collection tubes are used to collect blood samples for diagnostic testing. These tubes come in different colors, each of which represents a specific additive or anticoagulant used in the tube to preserve the blood sample. The most commonly used blood collection tubes are: Red top tube: Contains no additive and is used for collecting serum samples for chemistry and serology testing. Lavender top tube: Contains ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as an anticoagulant and is used for collecting whole blood samples for hematological testing. Green top tube: Contains sodium heparin as an anticoagulant and is used for collecting plasma samples for chemistry testing. Blue top tube: Contains sodium citrate as an anticoagulant and is used for collecting plasma samples for coagulation testing. Gray top tube: Contains sodium fluoride and potassium oxalate as preservatives and is used for collecting samples for glucose and lactate testing. It is important to use the correct type of blood collection tube for the specific test being performed to ensure accurate results. The tubes should also be handled and transported carefully to prevent hemolysis or clotting, which can affect the quality of the sample.