Which vacutainer (blood collection tube) is used for CBC because it best maintains cell morphology?

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The question asks which vacutainer (blood collection tube) is used for CBC because it best maintains cell morphology.
First, recall that CBC tests measure components of the blood such as white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets, and they require anticoagulation to prevent clotting while preserving cell integrity for accurate counting and morphology.
The Lavender Top tube contains EDTA (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) as the anticoagulant. EDTA chelates calcium, preventing coagulation, which helps preserve the size, shape, and overall morphology of blood cells—key for accurate differential counts and counts in a complete blood count.
In contrast, other common vacutainers have different purposes and can alter morphology or clotting status: a Red Top (no additive) yields serum after clotting, unsuitable for CBC; a Light Blue Top contains citrate and is used for coagulation studies, not for routine CBC; a Green Top contains heparin and can be used for some hematology tests but may offer less optimal preservation of morphology for CBC compared to EDTA; a Gray Top contains fluoride and potassium oxalate and is used for glucose testing and certain other assays, not CBC.
Therefore, for the goal of maintaining cell morphology during a CBC, the EDTA-containing Lavender Top is the appropriate choice because it stabilizes cells without allowing clot formation, enabling reliable automated counting and manual smear evaluation.
Note: Since the provided data did not list answer options, this explanation focuses on the standard rationale behind selecting the Lavender Top tube for CBC and contrasts it with other common tube types to support the reasoning.

VT122 Clinical Pathology QUIZ on 1/27

Which vacutainer (blood collection tube) is used for CBC because it best maintains cell morphology?

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