What additive is found in a blue-topped blood collection tube?

The blue-topped blood collection tube contains sodium citrate as its additive. Sodium citrate acts as an anticoagulant by binding calcium in the blood, which is crucial for the coagulation process. This means that when blood is collected in a blue-topped tube, the sample is preserved in a liquid state for testing purposes, especially in coagulation studies such as PT (prothrombin time) and aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time).

It is important to note the role of the specific additive in the collection tube to ensure accurate test results and appropriate handling of blood specimens. Whenever a specimen is prepared for tests requiring coagulation analysis, using sodium citrate in a blue-topped tube is essential to prevent clotting, making it the appropriate choice for such tests.