citrateanticoagulated

Citrate-anticoagulated blood is blood that has been treated with citrate, a compound that prevents the formation of blood clots. This process is commonly used in medical settings to preserve blood samples for laboratory testing or for transfusion purposes. Citrate is added to the blood sample to chelate calcium ions, which are essential for the formation of blood clots. By binding to calcium, citrate inhibits the activity of coagulation factors, thereby preventing clot formation.

The use of citrate-anticoagulated blood is crucial in various medical procedures and tests. For instance, it is often used in blood gas analysis, which measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. Citrate-anticoagulated blood is also used in the preparation of red blood cell concentrates for transfusion, as it prevents the formation of clots that could occur during storage or transfusion.

Citrate-anticoagulated blood should be handled with care to avoid contamination and to maintain its integrity. Proper storage conditions, such as refrigeration, are essential to preserve the blood's quality and prevent bacterial growth. Additionally, the use of citrate-anticoagulated blood requires careful monitoring of the citrate levels to ensure that the blood remains anticoagulated and does not clot during use.

In summary, citrate-anticoagulated blood is a vital component in medical diagnostics and transfusions. Its use relies on the inhibition of blood clotting through the chelation of calcium ions by citrate, ensuring the blood remains suitable for various laboratory tests and medical procedures.