What is a red top tube called?
What is a red top tube called?
Have you ever seen a blood test tube that looks like an arcane container? It’s called a red top tube and is used in clinical tests to collect, contain and preserve samples of human blood for testing. A red top tube, sometimes referred to as vacuum collection or evacuated tubes, can help determine markers such as levels of electrolytes, enzymes or hormones. They are crucial laboratory supplies used in the medical field; discover why they have become a go-to tool for many healthcare professionals!
What is a red top tube and what is it used for?
A red top tube is a type of test tube primarily used as a sample container in medical and clinical laboratory work. It is cylindrical in shape, made of plastic, and distinctly colored red with a black cap. Used in a variety of diagnostic tests including serum chemistry and blood gas analyses, the red top tube effectively separates serum from cells due to its small-scale separation technology. Furthermore, it provides an airtight seal for safe transport of collected samples for testing via centrifugation at a clinical or commercial lab. With its widespread use in many settings and reliable design, the red top tube has become an integral component utilized by many healthcare professionals to assure accurate test results.
How do you collect blood using a red top tube?
When collecting blood samples with a red top tube, it is important to recognize that different techniques may be used. Generally, the skin where the needle is being inserted should be cleaned before collection begins. The patient’s veins should also be located and then punctured using a sterile needle or vacutainer. Next, the blood should be gently injected into the red top tube until approximately one-half full. Lastly, pressure should be applied to the puncture area for several minutes to avoid excessive bleeding and help create a clot for easier sample preparation and transportation. It is also advisable for healthcare workers to use proper safety precautions and personal protective equipment when collecting samples since bodily fluids can contain parasites, bacteria, and viruses that may cause health risks.
Are there any risks associated with using a red top tube for blood collection purposes?
Collecting blood in a red top tube is the most common laboratory procedure. However, frequent use of these tubes can cause potential risks if they are not handled with care. The amount of anticoagulant present in a red top tube is lower than other tubes, so any type of transfer may cause some degree of clotting. If residual EDTA is allowed to mix with the specimen it can lead to inaccuracies in testing results due to its ability to decrease hemoglobin concentrations. Additionally, during transport and storage it’s important to avoid extreme temperatures or mechanical shock which could lead to ruptured cells and an altered biochemistry within the sample. Finally, aggressive mixing should be avoided as it can damage RBCs, leukocytes and shards of glass if the tube has been cracked or chipped. Taking extra precautions when using a red top tube minimize these risks so that accurate testing results can be obtained.
A red top tube is a common type of evacuated blood collection tube. It is primarily used for the collection of serum samples. Serum is the liquid portion of blood that remains after clotting has occurred. Collecting blood in a red top tube requires specialised equipment and trained personnel. Common diseases that can be detected with red top tube test results include diabetes, liver disease and kidney disease. There are also some risks associated with using a red top tube for blood collection purposes, such as infection and bruising. However, these risks are usually minor and can be easily managed by trained professionals.”If you have any questions about collecting blood in a red top tube or would like to learn more about this process, please contact our office today. Our team of experts would be happy to answer any questions you may have.”
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