A specific type of diagnostic procedure requires blood samples to be collected in tubes with a lavender-colored stopper. These tubes contain the anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). EDTA prevents blood from clotting by binding calcium, which is essential for the coagulation cascade. Complete blood counts (CBC) are a common example of tests that utilize this collection method, providing valuable information about a patient’s overall health.
The use of EDTA-containing tubes is crucial for accurate hematological analysis. By preventing clot formation, the integrity of blood cells is preserved, ensuring reliable results for parameters such as red blood cell count, white blood cell count, platelet count, and hemoglobin levels. This method facilitates consistent and standardized testing procedures in clinical laboratories, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care. Historically, the introduction of anticoagulants in blood collection revolutionized hematology, allowing for automated analysis and a greater understanding of blood disorders.