Blutentnahmeröhrchen

Blutentnahmeröhrchen are specialized tubes used in clinical laboratories for the collection, transport and temporary storage of blood samples. They are designed to preserve sample integrity while facilitating accurate laboratory testing. Each tube typically contains a small volume of anticoagulant or clotting agent, a seal or stopper and, in many cases, a plastic or glass stopper that can be punctured with a needle. The internal surface may be coated or treated to reduce protein adhesion and to prevent sample hemolysis.

Several standard types are commonly used. EDTA tubes – typically lavender capped – are the default for hematology, as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid chelates calcium and prevents clotting. Heparin tubes, usually purple, are used for plasma chemistry studies. Coagulation tubes, often green or blue, contain sodium citrate. Serum tubes are plain or with gel separators and are left to clot before centrifugation. Additional tubes contain additives for specialized tests, such as fluoride for glucose measurement or hirudin for sensitive coagulation assays.

The design of Blutentnahmeröhrchen complies with international quality standards such as ISO 80369 and national guidelines from organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Proper selection, labeling and handling mitigate preanalytical errors that can arise from incorrect tube choice, sample mishandling or contamination. By ensuring compatibility with downstream assays, these tubes play a crucial role in the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic testing.