Why we use Color Coded Blood Collection Tube

Color coded blood collection tubes

Have you noticed that we use different colored blood collection tubes? Each color relates to unique additives that are in the tube.

Red Edta Blood Tube: Contain NO anticoagulants, used for serum testing. Serum is fluid that is left behind after the cells are removed due to clotting.

Gold Edta Blood Tube: Contains a clot activator and special gel to separate serum from the cells.

Purple Edta Blood Tube: Contains a clot blocker and are used for complete blood count(CBC).

Green & Light Blue Edta Blood Tube: Used for plasma testing. Plasma is left over after uncoagulated whole blood cells are removed by centrifugation.