Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) AMCA Practice Exam

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Which of the following tests is usually performed using a lavender tube rather than a red tube?

Liver function test
Blood glucose test
CBC
Basic metabolic panel

The correct answer is: CBC

The test that is typically performed using a lavender tube is a Complete Blood Count (CBC). Lavender tubes contain an anticoagulant called EDTA, which prevents blood from clotting. This is essential for tests like the CBC, which require whole blood for analysis of various blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The preservation of cellular components is critical for accurate results. In contrast, red tubes are generally used for tests that require serum, such as liver function tests, blood glucose tests, and basic metabolic panels, where the blood is allowed to clot, and the serum is separated for analysis. The distinct purpose of these tubes aligns with the specific requirements of the tests they are designed for, making the lavender tube the correct choice for the CBC. This differentiation in tube use is key in phlebotomy and laboratory practices to ensure the reliability and accuracy of test results.