• How does a gold top (SST) tube differ from a red top tube, and what tests is it used for?

  A gold top tube, often referred to as an SST (Serum Separator Tube), differs significantly from a red top tube in terms of its composition and the specific tests for which it is used in phlebotomy...

• What's the difference between a light green top and dark green top?

  The difference between light green top and dark green top tubes lies in the type of anticoagulant used and their specific applications in blood collection. Both tubes contain heparin as an anticoagulant, but the concentration of heparin may vary..

• Do you have a cheat sheet for blood draw tube colors?

  Phlebotomy, the practice of drawing blood from a patient for clinical or medical testing, requires the use of different colored tubes to collect and store blood samples. Each tube color represents a specific additive or anticoagulant used in the sample collection process. In this guide, we will ..

• How does a light blue top tube differ from a dark blue top tube?

  The primary difference between a light blue top tube and a dark blue top tube lies in the type and concentration of anticoagulant used. Both tubes contain an anticoagulant, typically sodium citrate, but the concentration may vary…

• When should a gray top tube be used, and what tests are commonly associated with it?

  A gray top tube is used for blood collection when tests requiring plasma or whole blood for glucose determination are ordered. The gray top tube typically contains an anticoagulant, such as sodium fluoride, which helps preserve glucose levels by inhibiting ...

• When is a yellow top tube used, and which tests does it support?

  A yellow top tube is commonly used for blood collection when tests requiring plasma for various clinical chemistry and serology assays are ordered. The yellow top tube typically contains the anticoagulant acid citrate dextrose (ACD), which helps prevent ...

• Any tips for using butterfly needles?

  When it comes to drawing blood or starting an IV line, healthcare professionals often rely on the butterfly needle technique. This method, also known as the winged infusion set, offers several advantages over traditional needles, including increased precision and less patient discomfort..

• What is the purpose of using a light blue top tube, and which tests require it?

  A light blue top tube is used for blood collection when coagulation studies are required. The primary purpose of using a light blue top tube is to obtain a specimen that is suitable for coagulation testing. The tube contains an anticoagulant, typically sodium...

• Does the butterfly needle have an expiration date, and how is it indicated on the packaging?

  Yes, our butterfly needles are assigned an expiration date to ensure the safety and reliability of the product. The expiration date is a critical element in maintaining the sterility and performance of the butterfly needle over time…