When a nurse is collecting blood, which step is essential when collecting a specimen in a light-blue-top (citrate)tube?
A)Always fill completely.
B)Collect last if multiple tubes will be collected.
C)Fill only half full.
D)Shake vigorously as soon as tube is filled.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The light-blue-top tube contains sodium citrate, which acts as an anticoagulant by binding calcium in the blood. It is essential to fill these tubes completely to maintain the proper blood-to-anticoagulant ratio, ensuring accurate coagulation tests.

When a Nurse Is Collecting Blood, Which Step Is Essential