Anticoagulants Flashcards
What is the purpose of anticoagulants?
Prevent clotting of blood (in patient samples)
What are the different types of Heparin?
Na, K. and Li Heparin
What is the Ratio of Heparin to Blood?
20 U/mL of blood
Why is Heparin not suitable for Differential Blood Smears?
Interferes with staining and causes clumping of WBCs
How does Heparin work as an anticoagulant? (The Action)
Prevents the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin
What is EDTA used for?
An anticoagulant
What is the prefered anticoagulant for hematology studies?
EDTA
Why is EDTA the preferred anticoagulant for hematology studies?
It does not alter cell morphology.
How does EDTA work as an anticoagulant? (The Action)
Forms a complex with Calcium which is necessary for clot formation
What happens if too much EDTA is used in a sample?
Cell Shrinkage (invalidates results)
What are Oxalates and Citrates used for?
Anticoagulants in Blood Samples
How do Oxalates and Citrates work as anticoagulants? (The Action)
They form a complexe with Calcium which is necessary for clot formation.
Heparinized samples should be refrigerated if not tested within________________________ of collection.
1 hour
What should be done to a refrigerated sample before analysis?
Bring back to room temperature
