Products Description

Heparin types

Heparin tubes can contain different types of heparin, such as sodium heparin, lithium heparin, or ammonium heparin. The type of heparin used depends on the test being performed.

Blood type

Heparin tubes produce plasma, not serum, which is different from red tubes.

Frequency of use

Heparin tubes are often used for emergency cases that require immediate blood chemistry results.

Cost

Heparin tubes can be expensive, so they are usually only used in laboratories with high workloads.

Sterility

Heparin tubes are irradiated to achieve sterility, but they are only sterile on the inside. Re-sterilizing them is not recommended because the pressure changes during the process can prevent the tube from drawing the correct amount of blood.

Heparin is a naturally occurring anticoagulant that prevents blood clots from forming and extending. It doesn't break down clots that have already formed, but it allows fibrinolysis to break them down normally.