Blood tests are one of the most common diagnostic tools used by healthcare professionals to help identify and diagnose various medical conditions. When a blood test is ordered, it is important to know which type of tube to use to draw the blood. The lavender tube is one of the most commonly used tubes, but when should it be used? In this article, we will explore when you should draw the lavender tube for blood tests.
What is the lavender tube?
The lavender tube, also known as the purple tube, is a type of tube used to collect blood for various laboratory tests. It contains the anticoagulant EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), which is used to prevent the blood from clotting. EDTA works by binding to the calcium ions, which are necessary for the coagulation process, thus preventing the blood from clotting.
When should the lavender tube be used?
The lavender tube is typically used to collect whole blood specimens for hematology testing, such as complete blood count (CBC) and blood smear evaluations. Hematology tests help healthcare professionals evaluate blood cell count, the types of cells present, and the health of the cells.
CBC testing
CBC testing is one of the most common tests ordered by healthcare professionals. It can provide valuable information about a person’s overall health and aid in the diagnosis of various health conditions. CBC testing includes measurements of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.
For CBC testing, the lavender tube is the preferred tube as it contains EDTA, which prevents the blood from clotting and alters the cell morphology. Correct sampling techniques are crucial for CBC testing, as it requires a properly filled tube and adequate mixing.
Blood smear evaluations
Blood smear evaluations are another type of hematology testing. This test requires a thin layer of blood to be spread onto a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood smear evaluations can provide healthcare professionals with important information about the morphology of blood cells, such as the size, shape, and color.
The lavender tube is also used for blood smear evaluation. Again, proper sampling techniques are essential to obtain accurate results.
Other considerations
While the lavender tube is commonly used for hematology testing, there are certain situations where other tubes may be necessary. For example, if a patient is taking anticoagulant medication, a blue tube, which contains sodium citrate, may be used instead. Additionally, if a healthcare professional needs to measure specific analytes in the blood, such as glucose or electrolytes, a different tube may be necessary.
It is important to follow proper sampling techniques when drawing blood, regardless of the tube used. This includes using sterile equipment, properly identifying the patient, and filling the tube to the recommended level.
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In conclusion, the lavender tube is commonly used for hematology testing, specifically for CBC testing and blood smear evaluations. It contains the anticoagulant EDTA, which prevents blood from clotting and alters cell morphology. However, it is important to consider other factors, such as medication use and analyte testing, when determining which tube to use for blood collection. Following proper sampling techniques is essential for accurate and reliable test results.
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Last update 2023-09-22. Price and product availability may change.