Final answer:
Blood bank tests generally require two or more pink or lavender EDTA tubes, and sometimes an additional glass red stoppered tube. EDTA is used to prevent clotting and preserve blood cells for accurate testing, which is essential for diagnosing conditions like hemolytic anemia or preparing for transfusions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blood bank tests often require the collection of two or more pink or lavender EDTA tubes for analyzing blood samples. EDTA acts as an anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting. Additionally, for certain tests, an additive glass red stoppered tube may be used. When a blood sample is taken from a patient, for example, one with hemolytic anemia, the presence of antibodies attached to red blood cells can be detected. The use of EDTA helps in stabilizing blood cells and preventing the destruction of cellular components, which is crucial for accurate diagnostic testing.
Blood samples are collected into tubes containing anticoagulants like EDTA or lithium heparin and then centrifuged to separate plasma from other blood components. This plasma can be used for various assays, including antibody screens that detect agglutination - the clumping of cells - in the presence of specific antibodies. This process is essential for ensuring the compatibility of blood for transfusions and for identifying potential antigens that could cause reactions in patients who have had multiple pregnancies or transfusions.