There are various factors that need to be considered when veterinarians are making supply purchasing decisions for their blood collection processes. The size and type of animal, the blood collection frequency, and the scale of testing are all critical considerations. For unique applications, one might want to consider blood tube customization options, such as tubes with specific rubber top colors and chemical additive configurations.
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Air-Tite is well known for their selection veterinary blood collection tubes, which include both high-quality Air-Tite branded vacutainers as well as those from other well-known quality brands such as BD. You can select from our inventory of trusted brands or design your own customized products with Air-Tite with assistance from our Animal Health Manager. With so many options at your fingertips, it is important to learn what to look for before you shop.
The first step to buying the right veterinary blood sample collection materials is to figure out what size tube is needed. BD and Air-Tite’s vacutainer volumes typically range from 3 to 10 milliliters.
Larger livestock animals, such as cows, horses, and larger swine, require a bigger collection tube than a cat or dog. Additionally, certain tests require specified volumes of blood. If you need to run multiple tests or would like to keep a backup sample available to confirm the results, collecting a larger volume reduces the need for multiple blood draws.
While this may tempt you to simply get bigger tubes in general, leaving a large amount of unused space with the sample can be problematic. Instead, choose a size that’s just big enough for the required blood sample and any additives.
Many blood collection tests require the blood sample to be mixed with specific additives. Some blood collection tubes come with different additives already inside the tubes. This means there are several different additive options to also consider when preparing supplies.
For example, chemical substances can help preserve blood samples for testing. If you’d like to separate blood cells from serum, a gel additive with a density that’s between the two substances can do the trick.
Air-Tite’s yellow top tubes have a gel barrier at the bottom. After centrifugation, the gel barrier becomes loose and settles as a divider between the red blood cells and serum, remaining stable for up to 48 hours.
Most blood collection tubes also have additives to either accelerate or prevent clotting. These clot activators and anticoagulants ensure optimal conditions for accurate test results.
The different color rubber tops on these vacutainer tubes often indicate the type of additive in the tube. Examples of common combinations include:
With Air-Tite, you have the ability to choose any color combination you may need. Our Animal Health Manager is happy to help you design blood collection tubes just for your practice.
Maintaining a chart or key of your chosen color code can help you keep track of what types of tubes you have on hand and avoid any confusion when sending and analyzing samples.
When using EDTA, it’s particularly important to choose the right size collection tube and collect enough blood so the tube is more than half full. Underfilled tubes can cause shrinkage of the red blood cells, affecting the mean cell volume and corpuscular hemoglobin concentration.
Never shake the sample tubes. Instead, gently mix the sample with EDTA by carefully inverting the tube or rolling it between your palms. Blood samples with EDTA should be stored in refrigeration and transported to the lab alongside a cold pack. Use care to separate the sample from direct contact with the cold pack (such as by wrapping it with paper towels) because if the red blood cells freeze, hemolysis may result.
Some labs also recommend including peripheral blood smears when there’s an anticipated delay from the time of collection to analysis in the laboratory. Remember to always clearly mark and label blood samples with the animal identification, date, and any additional information.
EDTA is the preferred anticoagulant for mammals and most other species. However, the blood of certain birds, turtles, and reptiles hemolyzes upon contact with EDTA, compromising the sample. In this case, citrate anticoagulant may be placed in the syringe before collecting blood directly into the syringe. When using this method, it’s crucial to maintain a specific citrate-to-blood ratio to account for dilution when evaluating the sample.
You can discuss your specific needs with an expert at Air-Tite to find the right tubes and additives to suit your needs.
There are many reasons why a veterinarian might need custom tubes for blood collection. The most common customizations are rubber tube top color, tube size, and additive. You can further customize your selection by choosing tubes made with glass or plastic material. You’ll also have the option to create private or branded label vacutainers with specific additives.
After confirming the vacutainer details and quantity, Air-Tite connects with the supplier, identifies pricing, and shares the expected lead time. Working with efficient and capable suppliers makes for a seamless transaction that our customers appreciate.
Air-Tite’s vacutainers are designed for the same purpose and application as BD vacutainers. We also use industry-standard colors relevant to the additive and sizing, like BD. As a small company, we can control our inventory to accommodate our customers' needs and minimize discontinuation concerns. Whether you prefer a brand name or want to explore Air-Tite’s in-house products, we’ve got you covered.
Once the appropriate vacutainer size and additive is decided, the next step will be selecting a blood collecting needle (and any additional accessories) to meet your needs. Whether you are a veterinary expert in a vet clinic, laboratory setting, or on a livestock farm, the needle size is just as relevant as the blood collection tube volume.
Multiple draw needles are used with vacuum collection tubes. There are two types of sterile needles to evaluate: A Single-Use or Multi-Type. A Single-Use needle is a double ended stainless steel needle for use with blood collecting needle holders and tubes. A Multi-Type is a double ended needle which has a retractable sheath over the portion of the needle that penetrates the blood tube, permitting several samples to be collected with one single puncture.
We have determined some of the most common sizes in demand for animal health to be 18g or 20g needles. Air-Tite Products offers a range of 18g-22g blood collection needles in a variety of lengths varying from 1" to 1 ½” to fit your specific needs. If you are uncertain of which size is right for you, please contact a knowledgeable member of the Air-Tite team. If we are unable to provide the correct product for you, we can help you source exactly what you are seeking.
Air-Tite customers receive superior products at excellent prices. We sell our branded vacutainers along with competing brands to give customers the ultimate control over their purchase. We give customers the service, value, and shopping experience they deserve to ensure there’s no need to look elsewhere when supplying your veterinary practice.
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Blood collection tubes are a linchpin of accurate medical diagnostics, influencing the reliability of test results. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or an individual curious about the process, understanding how to select the right blood collection tubes is crucial. In this guide, we’ll take you through the key steps to ensure that you make informed choices for precise testing.
The ultimate guide on how to choose the Best Blood Collection Tubes for PRP for accurate testing. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a lab technician, finding the right collection tubes is essential for reliable and precise results. In this comprehensive article, we will walk you through the important factors to consider when selecting blood collection tubes, ensuring that you make an informed decision every time.
Different tubes are designed to preserve different components of the blood, such as plasma or serum. This guide will help you understand the various types of tubes available, their purposes, and the importance of choosing the right one depending on your specific testing needs.
We will also explore the different additives used in blood collection tube and their impact on test results. Furthermore, we will discuss the various sizes and colors of tubes and their significance in differentiating between specific test requirements.
When it comes to blood collection tube, not all are created equal. Different tubes are designed to preserve different components of the blood, such as plasma or serum. Using the wrong tube can lead to inaccurate test results, which can have serious implications for patient care. It is crucial to understand the importance of using the right blood collection tubes to ensure accurate testing.
The right blood collection tubes can help preserve the integrity of the sample and maintain the stability of the analytes being tested. For example, certain tubes are designed to prevent clotting, while others contain additives that help preserve specific components of the blood. By using the appropriate tube for each test, you can minimize the risk of sample degradation and ensure reliable results.
There are several different types of blood collection tubes available, each designed for specific purposes. Let’s explore some of the most common types and their applications:
These tubes are used for tests that require serum as the primary sample. They typically don’t contain any anticoagulants, allowing the blood to clot and separate from the serum. Serum tubes are commonly used for tests such as liver function tests, lipid profiles, and hormone assays.
Plasma tubes are designed to prevent blood from clotting by using anticoagulants such as EDTA (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) or heparin. These tubes are used when plasma is required for testing, such as in coagulation studies or certain chemistry tests.
These tubes contain a gel barrier that separates the cellular components from the serum or plasma after centrifugation. Gel separator tubes are particularly useful when you need to obtain serum or plasma that is free from cellular contamination. They are commonly used in chemistry tests, as well as in certain infectious disease screenings.
Lavender-top tubes contain the anticoagulant EDTA and are used for complete blood counts (CBC) and blood cell differentials. EDTA prevents the blood from clotting and preserves the cell morphology, allowing for accurate analysis of the different blood cell types.
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In addition to the different types of tubes, blood collection tubes can also contain various additives that serve specific purposes. These additives help preserve the integrity of the sample and ensure accurate test results. Let’s take a closer look at some of the common additives used in blood collection tubes:
1. Anticoagulants: Anticoagulants, such as EDTA, heparin, or citrate, prevent blood from clotting by inhibiting the coagulation cascade. They are essential for tests that require plasma or whole blood samples. EDTA is commonly used for routine hematology tests, while heparin is often used for chemistry tests. Citrate is primarily used for coagulation studies.
2. Preservatives: Some blood collection tubes contain preservatives that help stabilize certain analytes in the sample. For example, tubes used for glucose testing may contain sodium fluoride, which prevents the breakdown of glucose in the sample. This ensures accurate glucose measurements, especially for tests that require delayed analysis.
3. Activators: Activators, such as silica particles, are often added to blood collection tubes to enhance clotting in serum tubes. They help accelerate the clotting process, allowing for faster separation of serum from the cellular components. This is particularly useful for tests that require the immediate analysis of serum samples.
Understanding the additives in blood collection tubes is crucial for selecting the right tube for each test. It ensures that the sample is properly preserved and that the test results are reliable and accurate.
When choosing blood collection tubes, there are several factors to consider to ensure accurate testing. These factors will help guide your decision-making process and ensure that you select the most appropriate tubes for your specific testing needs. Let’s explore these factors in more detail:
1. Test requirements: The first step in choosing the right blood collection tubes is to understand the specific requirements of the test you will be performing. Different tests may require different types of samples, such as whole blood, plasma, or serum. Additionally, certain tests may have specific requirements for additives or preservatives. By understanding the test requirements, you can select the most suitable tubes for accurate testing.
2. Sample stability: Some tests require immediate analysis, while others can tolerate delayed processing. It is important to consider the stability of the sample and select the appropriate tube that can preserve the integrity of the analytes until analysis. For example, if you are collecting samples for glucose testing, you would need a sample tube that contains a preservative to prevent the breakdown of glucose over time.
3. Storage and transportation: Consider how the collected samples will be stored and transported before analysis. Some tubes may be more suitable for long-term storage, while others are designed for immediate processing. It is important to choose tubes that are compatible with your storage and transportation methods to ensure sample integrity.
4. Compatibility with equipment: Ensure that the blood collection tubes you choose are compatible with the equipment and instruments used for analysis. Some tubes may require specific centrifuge settings or may not be compatible with certain analyzers. Consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines or seeking advice from technical experts can help ensure compatibility and avoid any issues during testing.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting blood collection tubes, ultimately leading to accurate and reliable test results.
Choosing the right blood collection tubes is essential for accurate testing. However, there are common mistakes that can compromise the integrity of the sample and lead to unreliable results. By being aware of these mistakes, you can avoid them and ensure the highest quality testing. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Always check the expiration date of the blood collection tubes before use. Expired tubes may need to be replaced with the necessary additives or preservatives, resulting in inaccurate test results. Using expired tubes can also lead to sample contamination or degradation.
Different tests require different types of tubes. Mixing up tubes can lead to incorrect results or sample contamination. Ensure proper labeling and organization to avoid confusion and ensure accurate testing.
Some tests require a specific volume of blood for accurate analysis. Collecting enough blood can lead to diluted samples or insufficient analyte concentrations, resulting in reliable results. Ensure that you collect the required volume of blood for each test.
Mishandling blood collection tubes can lead to sample contamination or degradation. Tubes should be handled gently and stored in appropriate conditions to maintain sample integrity. Avoid excessive shaking or exposure to extreme temperatures.
Taking care to avoid these common mistakes will help ensure accurate and reliable test results, providing the highest quality care for your patients or clients.
Proper handling and storage of blood collection tubes are crucial for maintaining sample integrity and ensuring accurate testing. By following best practices, you can minimize the risk of sample degradation and obtain reliable results. Here are some best practices to consider:
1. Proper labeling: Accurate labeling of blood collection tubes is essential for avoiding mix-ups and ensuring traceability. Ensure that each tube is clearly labeled with the patient’s name, date, and any other relevant information. Proper labeling will also help in tracking the samples and maintaining proper documentation.
2. Gentle inversion: After collection, gently invert the tubes several times to mix the blood with the additives or anticoagulants. This ensures proper distribution and prevents clotting or sample stratification. Avoid excessive shaking, as it can lead to hemolysis or sample contamination.
3. Appropriate storage temperature: Different blood collection tubes have specific storage temperature requirements. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper storage temperature and conditions. Improper storage can lead to sample degradation or compromised test results.
4. Protection from light: Some blood collection, particularly those used for certain chemistry tests, are sensitive to light. Store these tubes in light-protected containers or wrap them in aluminum foil to prevent light exposure, which can alter the results.
Following these best practices will help maintain the integrity of the samples and ensure accurate testing. By paying attention to the details of handling and storage, you can obtain reliable and precise results.
Different tests require specific blood collection tube to ensure accurate and reliable results. Here are some recommendations for commonly performed tests:
For CBC tests, lavender-top tubes containing EDTA are commonly used. EDTA prevents clotting and helps preserve cell morphology, allowing for accurate analysis of blood cell types.
Serum tubes without any additives are typically used for liver function tests. These tubes allow the blood to clot, separating the serum from the cellular components, which is necessary for liver enzyme analysis.
Coagulation studies require tubes with anticoagulants such as citrate. These tubes prevent blood from clotting and allow for accurate measurement of clotting factors and coagulation times.
Glucose testing requires tubes with sodium fluoride as a preservative. Sodium fluoride prevents the breakdown of glucose in the sample, ensuring accurate measurements even after delayed analysis.
It is important to consult the specific test requirements and guidelines provided by the test manufacturers to ensure accurate and reliable results.
When it comes to purchasing blood collection tube, it is important to choose a reliable supplier that offers high-quality products. Here are some options to consider:
Many medical supply companies specialize in offering a wide range of EDTA Blood Collection Tube. These companies often provide detailed product information and offer reliable customer support.
Suppliers that specialize in laboratory equipment often carry a variety of blood collection tube. These suppliers may also offer other laboratory supplies and equipment, making it convenient to source all your laboratory needs from one provider.
Online marketplaces such as Amazon or Alibaba offer a wide selection of blood collection tubes from various sellers. It is important to read reviews and ensure the seller has a good reputation before making a purchase.
When purchasing blood collection tubes, consider factors such as product quality, reliability, and customer support. It is also important to verify that the tubes comply with relevant industry standards and regulations.
Choosing the best blood collection tubes for accurate testing is essential for healthcare professionals and lab technicians. By understanding the different types of tubes, additives, and factors to consider, you can make informed decisions that lead to reliable and precise test results.
Remember to always consider the specific requirements of each test, the stability of the sample, and the compatibility with your equipment. Avoid common mistakes and follow best practices for handling and storing blood collection tubes. You can ensure the highest quality testing and provide the best possible care for your patients or clients.
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