Which test would typically require a red top tube for its specimen collection?

The red top tube is commonly utilized for serum collection, which is crucial for serum chemistry tests that measure various substances in the blood, such as electrolytes, proteins, and enzymes. This type of tube does not contain any additives that would interfere with the testing, allowing the blood to clot and facilitating the separation of serum from the cellular components after centrifugation.

In contrast, tests like PTT require citrate tubes, which contain an anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting and allow for the assessment of clotting function. The BMP encompasses tests that typically need serum but are generally collected in specific tubes which might include either red top or gel barrier tubes. A complete blood count is performed on whole blood collected in purple or lavender top tubes containing EDTA, an anticoagulant that preserves blood cell morphology and counts for analysis. Thus, the red top tube’s compatibility with serum collection makes it the appropriate choice for serum chemistry tests.