For platelet testing, which color-topped tube is used?

For platelet testing, which color-topped tube is used?

• A. Green
• B. Lavender
• C. Yellow
• D. Gray

Answer: (B)

Platelet testing relies on an anticoagulant that keeps platelets from clumping and preserves their appearance for accurate counting and morphology. The lavender-topped tube contains EDTA, which binds calcium and rapidly prevents clotting while stabilizing platelets, making it ideal for platelet counts and smear evaluation as part of a CBC. Green-top tubes contain heparin and can introduce variability in some hematology tests or affect platelet results, so they’re not as reliable for counting platelets. Gray-top tubes are designed for glucose testing and use additives that aren’t suited for hematology. Yellow-top tubes are used for blood cultures or special tests, not routine platelet testing. So, the lavender-topped tube is the best choice for platelet testing because EDTA provides stable anticoagulation that preserves platelets for accurate counts and examination.

Platelet testing relies on an anticoagulant that keeps platelets from clumping and preserves their appearance for accurate counting and morphology. The lavender-topped tube contains EDTA, which binds calcium and rapidly prevents clotting while stabilizing platelets, making it ideal for platelet counts and smear evaluation as part of a CBC.

Green-top tubes contain heparin and can introduce variability in some hematology tests or affect platelet results, so they’re not as reliable for counting platelets. Gray-top tubes are designed for glucose testing and use additives that aren’t suited for hematology. Yellow-top tubes are used for blood cultures or special tests, not routine platelet testing.

So, the lavender-topped tube is the best choice for platelet testing because EDTA provides stable anticoagulation that preserves platelets for accurate counts and examination.