For ESR testing, what tube type is used and handling considerations?

For ESR testing, what tube type is used and handling considerations?

• A. Light blue citrate tube; refrigerate.
• B. Lavender EDTA tube; keep at room temperature and avoid agitation that may alter ESR.
• C. Serum separator tube; refrigerate.
• D. Green heparin tube; store on ice.

Answer: (B)

ESR testing uses a lavender-top tube containing EDTA to anticoagulate the blood and preserve the cells so the erythrocytes can sediment in a standardized way. EDTA prevents clotting without introducing substances that would alter plasma composition or viscosity, which is important for the Westergren method. After collection, gently invert the tube to mix, and keep the sample at room temperature. Avoid agitation or shaking because mechanical disturbance can alter red cell stacking and sedimentation, skewing the result. Refrigeration or cold storage can also affect sedimentation and lead to inaccurate values. In short, use a lavender EDTA tube and handle it gently at room temperature to obtain a reliable ESR.

ESR testing uses a lavender-top tube containing EDTA to anticoagulate the blood and preserve the cells so the erythrocytes can sediment in a standardized way. EDTA prevents clotting without introducing substances that would alter plasma composition or viscosity, which is important for the Westergren method. After collection, gently invert the tube to mix, and keep the sample at room temperature. Avoid agitation or shaking because mechanical disturbance can alter red cell stacking and sedimentation, skewing the result. Refrigeration or cold storage can also affect sedimentation and lead to inaccurate values. In short, use a lavender EDTA tube and handle it gently at room temperature to obtain a reliable ESR.