Final answer:
Lavender EDTA tubes should be inverted gently 8 to 10 times to ensure proper mixing of the anticoagulant with the blood, preventing clotting and preserving sample quality for analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
When using lavender EDTA tubes for blood collection, proper mixing with the anticoagulant is crucial. The general recommendation is to invert the tube gently but thoroughly at least 8 to 10 times. This practice ensures that the EDTA is well mixed with the blood, preventing clotting and ensuring a high-quality sample for laboratory tests such as full blood counts or genetic testing. The process of inverting the tube mixes the anticoagulant with the blood without causing hemolysis or damaging the blood cells.