What type of blood collection tube is needed for running a COAG panel?

To run a COAG (coagulation) panel, the appropriate blood collection tube is one with a blue top. This type of tube typically contains sodium citrate as an anticoagulant, which is essential for coagulation studies. Sodium citrate works by binding calcium ions in the blood, thereby preventing clotting and preserving the blood sample for accurate testing of clotting factors.

Using a blue-topped tube ensures that the sample maintains the necessary properties for various coagulation tests, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Proper sample handling and the correct tube are crucial for obtaining reliable results in coagulation assessments.

Other tube colors, such as red, green, or lavender, contain different additives or no additives at all, which would alter the sample and potentially yield inaccurate results for a COAG panel. In particular, red tops typically contain no anticoagulants and would allow the blood to clot, making them unsuitable for coagulation studies.