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🔬Lab & Specimen Handling

Can tubes be shared across tests?

Some tests can use the same tube. Your lab's test requisition determines which tubes can be shared.

For example:

  • A single SST tube can provide serum for CBC, CMP, lipid panel, thyroid, and most chemistry tests
  • An EDTA tube draws both CBC and most molecular tests
  • Some tests require dedicated tubes (coagulation must have its own citrate tube)

    • The laboratory's test requisition specifies the exact tubes needed. Your phlebotomist will follow the requisition to determine the minimal tube set required.

    How many tubes are needed per test?Why do labs request multiple tubes?

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