Why EDTA is Used as the Additive in Purple Top Tubes?

Purple top tubes with EDTA for blood sample collection

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Medical testing relies heavily on the accuracy and reliability of blood sample collection. EDTA stands out for its unique properties and critical role among the various additives used in blood collection tubes.

In medical laboratories, the integrity of blood samples is paramount. Ensuring that the blood remains in a suitable condition for analysis is crucial for obtaining accurate results. Blood sample collection tubes come with various additives designed to preserve the sample in specific ways. The purple top tubes, universally recognized in the medical community, contain EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) as their additive.

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Proper Handling and Storage of EDTA Tubes

Proper Handling and Storage of EDTA Tubes

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid EDTA  tubes are essential in clinical laboratories for blood collection and preservation. Proper handling and storage of these tubes are crucial to maintain sample integrity and ensure

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They are primarily used for hematology tests, including complete blood counts (CBC) and blood smears.

Store EDTA tubes at room temperature (4-25°C) and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight to maintain their effectiveness.

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