Phlebotomy Technician Practice Exam (NCPT/CPT)

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How many times should the light blue tube be inverted after collection?

  1. 3-4 times

  2. 5 times

  3. 8-10 times

  4. 12 times

The correct answer is: 3-4 times

The light blue tube, which typically contains sodium citrate as an anticoagulant, is designed for coagulation studies, such as PT (Prothrombin Time) and PTT (Partial Thromboplastin Time). It is important to invert this tube immediately after collection to ensure proper mixing of the blood and anticoagulant. Inverting the tube 3-4 times is sufficient to achieve the necessary mixing without causing hemolysis or altering the sample's integrity. Excessive inversion can lead to damage to blood cells, which may compromise test results. Therefore, the recommended practice of inverting the light blue tube 3-4 times helps maintain the sample's quality for accurate laboratory analysis.

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