Question

A specimen for a complete blood count (CBC) is dropped off in the lab, and you notice that the doctor has drawn a green-top tube. What do you tell the physician?

a. The specimen is unsuitable for CBC, and a new sample is required.
b. Proceed with the CBC; the green-top tube is acceptable.
c. Ask for clarification on the choice of the green-top tube for CBC.
d. Notify the physician of the need for a different anticoagulant tube for CBC.

Answer 1

The green-top tube is not suitable for a CBC as it contains a heparin anticoagulant. A new sample using a different anticoagulant tube is required.

Step-by-step explanation:

The green-top tube is not suitable for a complete blood count (CBC) because it contains a heparin anticoagulant, which can interfere with the CBC results. A new sample is required using a different anticoagulant tube, such as an EDTA tube, which is commonly used for CBC. It's important to notify the physician about the need for a different anticoagulant tube to ensure accurate CBC results.