NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Collection RoutineEasy
A phlebotomy technician is preparing to collect a blood specimen for a complete blood count (CBC) from an adult patient. Which of the following tubes should the technician select?
- AGold top tube
- BLight blue top tube
- CGreen top tube
- DLavender top tube
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Lavender top tube
The lavender top tube contains EDTA, which is the anticoagulant of choice for hematology tests like the CBC because it preserves cell morphology.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Gold top tubes (SST) are used for serum chemistry tests.
- B. Light blue top tubes (sodium citrate) are used for coagulation studies.
- C. Green top tubes (heparin) are used for plasma chemistry tests.
CBC Tube
The complete blood count (CBC) is performed using a lavender (EDTA) top tube to prevent blood clotting and preserve cell structure.
- EDTA is an anticoagulant that binds calcium.
- Preserves cellular components for accurate counting and differentiation.
- Used for CBC, ESR, HgbA1c, and other hematology tests.
Memory trick: Every Color Has A Job!