What are PAXgene tubes used for?
Healthcare and research professionals use PAXgene tubes in clinical and research settings for applications such as gene expression studies, genomic sequencing, and other molecular diagnostic tests. The system ensures that nucleic acids remain intact, even in long-term storage, making it ideal for preserving blood samples for future RNA or DNA analysis.
Which needles are used for blood draws?
Phlebotomists typically use hypodermic needles attached to syringes or vacuum tubes. The most common type is the 21-gauge needle, which balances patient comfort and adequate blood flow. However, 22-gauge needles are frequently used for patients with smaller veins or children, as they are slightly thinner. Phlebotomists prefer butterfly needles (winged infusion sets) for more sensitive cases, such as patients with fragile veins.
What does sodium citrate do in a EDTA tube?
Sodium citrate and EDTA are two different anticoagulants. EDTA tubes (commonly purple or lavender-topped) contain EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) as the sole anticoagulant, which works by binding calcium to prevent clotting. Sodium citrate, on the other hand, is found in blue-topped tubes and serves a similar function by binding calcium but is used explicitly for coagulation studies.
If sodium citrate were accidentally introduced into an EDTA tube, it could potentially interfere with the specific tests meant for that tube. Both chemicals affect calcium levels but in slightly different ways. Mixing them could lead to inaccurate results for the intended blood analysis.
Can heparin be tubed?
While heparin can be tubed for medical use, it’s vital for medical professionals to adhere to proper guidelines. This is particularly important when using heparin in tubing systems, as it helps to ensure safe and effective administration and prevents potential chemical reactions or blockages.
Do PAXgene tubes lyse cells?
Yes, PAXgene tubes lyse cells. PAXgene Blood RNA tubes contain a proprietary reagent that lyses blood cells immediately upon collection. This lysis helps stabilize the RNA by preventing degradation and preserving it for downstream molecular analysis, such as RNA extraction for gene expression studies.