20/12/2025
🩸 Blood Collection Tubes – Color Code Guide
🔴 Red Top
Additive: None / Clot activator
Use: Serum tests
Tests: LFT, RFT, Lipid profile, Serology
🟡 Yellow / Gold Top (SST)
Additive: Clot activator + Gel separator
Use: Serum separation
Tests: Biochemistry, Hormones
🟣 Lavender / Purple Top
Additive: EDTA
Use: Hematology
Tests: CBC, Hb, ESR (automated), Blood grouping
🔵 Light Blue Top
Additive: Sodium citrate
Use: Coagulation studies
Tests: PT, INR, APTT
🟢 Green Top
Additive: Heparin
Use: Plasma chemistry
Tests: ABG, Electrolytes, Ammonia
⚫ Black Top
Additive: Sodium citrate (3.8%)
Use: ESR
Tests: ESR (Westergren method)
⚪ Grey Top
Additive: Sodium fluoride + Potassium oxalate
Use: Glucose preservation
Tests: FBS, PPBS, GTT, Lactate
🟠 Orange Top
Additive: Thrombin
Use: Rapid serum tests
Tests: STAT biochemistry
🟤 Royal Blue Top
Additive: None / EDTA / Heparin
Use: Trace elements
Tests: Zinc, Copper, Heavy metals
🩷 Pink Top
Additive: EDTA
Use: Blood bank
Tests: Cross-matching, Blood grouping
📝 Order of Draw (Important for Exams)
Blood culture
Light blue
Red / Yellow
Green
Lavender / Pink
Grey