Which type of tube contains both gel activator and lithium heparin?

The mint/light green tube, also known as the plasma separator tube (PST), is designed to contain both a gel separator and lithium heparin. The lithium heparin acts as an anticoagulant, preventing blood from clotting, while the gel provides a barrier that separates the serum or plasma from the blood cells after centrifugation. This combination allows for the collection of plasma samples that can be used for various laboratory tests, particularly when rapid processing is required.

Other types of tubes do not contain both elements. The light blue tube is typically used for coagulation tests and contains sodium citrate as an anticoagulant, but it does not have a gel separator. The gray top tube is used for glucose testing and may contain sodium fluoride and potassium oxalate but not lithium heparin or a gel. The red top tube is used for serum tests and usually does not have any additives, although some variations may contain a clot activator but not lithium heparin. Thus, the mint/light green tube is distinct in its composition and functionality within the order of draw.