What additive is found in the light blue tube?

What additive is found in the light blue tube?

• A. Sodium citrate
• B. Sodium heparin
• C. EDTA
• D. Potassium oxalate

Answer: (A)

The additive found in the light blue tube is sodium citrate. This anticoagulant is specifically used for coagulation studies because it works by binding calcium in the plasma, which is essential for the coagulation cascade. When collecting specimens for tests like PT (prothrombin time) or aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time), the use of sodium citrate ensures that the blood remains in a liquid state, allowing accurate measurement of coagulation factors in the laboratory. The light blue tube is important in the context of the order of draw, as it must be collected before tubes that contain additives which can affect coagulation results. The other additives mentioned, such as sodium heparin, EDTA, and potassium oxalate, serve different purposes and would interfere with coagulation testing if used inappropriately. Therefore, understanding the role of sodium citrate and its placement within the order of draw is crucial for obtaining reliable laboratory results.

The additive found in the light blue tube is sodium citrate. This anticoagulant is specifically used for coagulation studies because it works by binding calcium in the plasma, which is essential for the coagulation cascade. When collecting specimens for tests like PT (prothrombin time) or aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time), the use of sodium citrate ensures that the blood remains in a liquid state, allowing accurate measurement of coagulation factors in the laboratory.

The light blue tube is important in the context of the order of draw, as it must be collected before tubes that contain additives which can affect coagulation results. The other additives mentioned, such as sodium heparin, EDTA, and potassium oxalate, serve different purposes and would interfere with coagulation testing if used inappropriately. Therefore, understanding the role of sodium citrate and its placement within the order of draw is crucial for obtaining reliable laboratory results.