Which tube top is used for anticoagulation in coagulation studies?

The light blue tube top is specifically designed for coagulation studies because it contains sodium citrate as an anticoagulant. Sodium citrate works by binding calcium ions in the blood, which are essential for the clotting process. This allows for accurate measurement of various coagulation factors, making it the standard choice for tests such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time).

In the context of coagulation studies, it's crucial to have an accurate assessment of the blood's clotting ability, and using the correct tube ensures that the sample remains anticoagulated until analysis. The light blue top's designation for coagulation studies is well recognized within laboratory practice, which prevents confusion and ensures the reliability of the test results.

The other tube tops, such as gray, lavender, and gold, are utilized for different tests and contain different additives that would not be suitable for coagulation analysis. For instance, the gray tube is typically used for glucose testing, the lavender tube is commonly used for complete blood counts, and the gold tube is often reserved for serum tests, which require a clot to form.