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BD Vacutainer® EDTA Tubes FAQ
Q.
What does EDTA stand for and how does the anticoagulant work?
A.
EDTA stands for Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. EDTA functions by permanently binding calcium and magnesium in the blood, preventing the blood from clotting.
Q.
What is the concentration of EDTA in the lavender and pink stoppered tubes?
A.
The nominal EDTA concentration is 1.8mg EDTA per millilitre of blood.
Q.
What differences can I expect to see in haematological parameters when I switch from BD Vacutainer® K3EDTA to BD Vacutainer® K2EDTA?
A.
K3EDTA is a liquid and will dilute the sample ~ 1-2%. K2EDTA is spray-dried on the walls of the tube and will not dilute the sample. Slightly higher results have been seen from the K2EDTA tube in some CBC parameters, but none of these were clinically significant. It is important to mix the sample 8 - 10 times immediately after collection to ensure all the anticoagulant is thoroughly mixed with the blood sample.
Q.
Can the BD Vacutainer® Plus EDTA Tube be used for routine blood bank procedures?
A.
Yes, the BD Vacutainer® K2EDTA Plus Tubes are intended for routine immunohematology testing, including red cell grouping, Rh typing and antibody screening.
Q.
What is the minimum and maximum fill volume in the EDTA tubes?
A.
The minimum and maximum acceptable blood volumes should be established by each facility, to ensure that accurate haematology results are obtained. BD Vacutainer® Blood Collection Tubes are evacuated to draw the appropriate volume to ensure a proper blood to additive ratio.
Q.
Does BD offer an EDTA tube that contains gel?
A.
Yes, the BD Vacutainer® PPT Tube (reference number 362791, 362795 and 362799) contain EDTA anticoagulant and an inert polyester gel. The BD Hemogard™ closure colour is pearl white and the blood draw volume is 5mL and 8.5 mL respectively.
Please note, not all products, services or features of products and services may be available in your local area. Please check with your local BD representative.
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