Phlebotomy Tubes

Binds calcium fill completely for proper blood additive balance

Contains both a clot activator and a separator gel

STAT serum tubes contain fast-acting clot activator

Contain heparin (sodium heparin and lithium heparin) deactivate thrombin

Contain either acid citrate dextrose (ACD) or Sodium Polyanethol Sulfate (SPS)

Contain EDTA inhibits action of calcium

Contain sodium citrate used for coagulation studies

Serum tube: contain a clot activator (plastic) or no additive (glass)

Can be used for STAT chemistry tests

Used for trace elements, toxicology, nutrition testing

SPS used for microbiology studies

Used for certain chemistry, serology, and immunology tests should not be used for therapeutic drug levels

Contains sodium fluoride prevents glycolysis

Contain sodium or potassium oxalate - oxalate tubes

Used for hematology studies (CBC)

Used for certain chemistry, serology, and immunology tests

ACD often used for whole blood specimens for DNA analysis (paternity testing) or organ transplant

Used for blood banking type and crossmatch

Plasma separator tube (PSTs) used for routine chemistry does not bind calcium

Usually contain EDTA and another additive free of trace elements