Microtainer® Blood Collection Tube, with Microgard™ Tube Extender

Microtainer® Blood Collection Tube, with Microgard™ Tube Extender

The Microtainer® Blood Collection Tube with Microgard™ Tube Extender is a microcollection blood tube designed to help clinicians obtain and process small-volume blood specimens collected by capillary methods such as fingerstick or heelstick. It supports the needs of pediatric, geriatric, difficult-draw, and point-of-care workflows where minimizing blood loss and reducing repeat collections are important. The integrated Microgard™ Tube Extender increases the effective tube length to improve handling, labeling, transport, and compatibility with common laboratory equipment while maintaining a micro-volume sample format.

Intended use

This device is intended for collection, preservation, and processing of capillary whole blood and, when appropriate for the selected tube additive, preparation of plasma or serum for laboratory testing. Microtainer® tubes are commonly used for chemistry, hematology, and other routine assays that accept micro-samples, depending on laboratory method requirements and the additive type selected.

Key features

• Microgard™ Tube Extender helps provide a longer gripping surface to improve handling during collection and processing.
• Enhanced stability during centrifugation and decapping/recapping steps by providing added tube length for better positioning in accessories and racks.
• Reduced exposure risk by improving control of the tube during manipulation and supporting safer workflow practices.
• Small-volume design supports capillary collection and reduces the total blood volume required for testing.
• Clear identification and organization with a tube format that is easier to label and track than shorter microtubes.

Workflow benefits

In capillary collection, specimen integrity depends on consistent technique and proper tube handling. The Microgard™ Tube Extender is designed to make microtubes feel more like standard-length tubes, which can help reduce handling errors such as tipping, spills, or difficulty placing the tube into holders, racks, or centrifuge inserts. When paired with appropriate capillary collection technique, the tube supports efficient transfer, mixing (when additives are present), and downstream processing. Laboratories may find the extended profile helpful when aligning barcodes for scanning and when arranging specimens for transport and accessioning.

Additives and sample types

Microtainer® tubes are available in configurations that may include different additives to support specific testing needs (for example, anticoagulants for whole blood/plasma testing or clot activators for serum). Additive selection, fill volume targets, and mixing requirements should follow the tube labeling and the laboratory’s validated procedures to help ensure accurate results.

Handling and safety considerations

• Use standard precautions and follow institutional policies for bloodborne pathogen safety.
• Fill to the recommended level to maintain the intended blood-to-additive ratio when applicable.
• Gently invert as directed for additive tubes to promote proper mixing; do not shake.
• Inspect for damage or leakage prior to use and during transport.
• Follow validated centrifugation and storage conditions for the selected tube type and test menu.

At-a-glance

For product-specific configurations, additives, volumes, and compatibility guidance, consult the tube labeling and the manufacturer’s instructions for use.