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What Are Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA)Tubes Used For?

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) tubes are used in the collection of blood for medical testing purposes. They contain a substance that helps to stop the blood from coagulating while it is being drawn.

  1. Description

    • EDTA tubes have either a purple or a lavender top. The interior of the tube is coated with EDTA or contains an 8 percent EDTA liquid solution.

    EDTA

    • EDTA works to stop the coagulation of blood by attracting calcium ions in the blood. These calcium ions are a vital part of the clotting process.

    Uses

    • EDTA tubes are used for routine blood testing such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell count, red blood cell count and platelet count.

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